Heat Advisory Issued for Stillwater: Five Ways to Beat the Heat

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Washington County. 

The heat advisory expires at 9 p.m. Thursday, and warns of high heat and humidity combining to make deadly conditions this week.

The warm conditions arrived in the valley on Monday afternoon, and the humidity will arrive tonight with dew points rising from 62 this afternoon to above 70. 

The National Weather Service says heat combined with Gulf of Mexico air and its corresponding moisture will make dangerous conditions for those without air conditioning on Tuesday and Wednesday when temperatures rise into the 90s, pushing heat indices over 100 degrees.

Last week, Dr. Ginger Garlie of Rivertown Animal Hospital wrote this blog post warning of the dangers of leaving pets in vehicles during extreme heat.

"I will never forget the golden retriever I treated about a year ago for heat stroke," she wrote. The dog was overweight and out of shape. She was taken for a run on a warm day and collapsed. It took about an hour for them to bring her to the hospital. By the time she arrived she was non-responsive and in tough shape. With all of the effort, resources and hours of intensive care we could give, we were unable to save this dog. It was heartbreaking for the family and for us as veterinary professionals."

Five Ways to Beat the Heat

• Jump in the river or head to the swimming pond at Lake Elmo Park Reserve
• Enjoy a frozen treat at Nelson's, Leo's, Dairy Queen, Mara-Mi or CherryBerry
• Enjoy the sun at one of Stillwater's outdoor patios
• Enjoy shopping, appetizers or beverages in the air conditioning at one of Stillwater's fine establishments
• Take a trip to the Stillwater Public Library

Chance of Thunderstorms Later This Week

During extremely hot and humid weather the body's ability to cool itself is affected. When the body heats too rapidly to cool itself properly, or when too much fluid or salt is lost through dehydration or sweating, body temperature rises and heat-related illnesses may develop.

Heat-related illnesses can range from heat cramps to heat exhaustion to more serious heat stroke. Heat stroke can result in death and requires immediate medical attention.

Factors or conditions that can make some people more susceptible to heat-related illnesses include age (older adults and young children), obesity, fever, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, prescription drug and alcohol use, and sunburn. Sunburn, caused by ultraviolet radiation from the sun, can significantly retard the skin's ability to shed excess heat.