Heat wave warms up for scorching weekend

An excessive heat watch will be in effect until Saturday evening, with actual temperatures in the mid-90’s.

Storm Center 7 Chief Meteorologist McCall Vrydaghs said Miami Valley residents should take frequent breaks if they are outdoors and recommended limiting the time to early morning and late evening.

July 18 through 24 are typically the hottest days of the year for the Miami Valley, Vrydaghs said, although not usually quite this hot.

Vrydaghs said not to ignore signs of heat illness, like a headache or dizziness, and to move inside or into the shade when experiencing symptoms.

“If you feel like you’re not recovering once you move inside, go see a doctor,” Vrydaghs said.

Heat-related deaths are the most common weather-related deaths, Vrydaghs said. 108 people died from a heat-related death last year. The next closest weather-related death was flooding, with 80 fatalities.

MORE: Heat wave to bring dangerous temperatures

The Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Department of Aging are also warning Ohioans to be careful in the sweltering temperatures.

To stay cool, the Department of Health recommends drinking cold, non-alcoholic beverages and wearing lightweight clothing.

Ohio Department of Aging agents emphasized checking on older neighbors, as they are often more affected by heat.

The state's Home Energy Assistance Summer Crisis Program will provide eligible residents with cooling assistance.

Ohioans with an income at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines, who have someone 60 years or older living in the home or who can show a doctor’s note proving they need assistance for health reasons are eligible for the program.

The deadline to apply is Aug. 31.

Local AAA officials said the heat isn’t just hard on the human body.

“This heat is a challenge for driver and vehicles alike,” said Cindy Antrican, public affairs manager at AAA.

AAA recommends drivers pack an emergency kit during the summer months. These kits should have bottled water, a sunshade to place in front of car windows and vehicle coolant.

If the car engine overheats, Antrican said, turn off the air conditioner and unplug all devices. If it doesn’t cool down, shut the car off.

“It’s important to check your battery, tires and fluids,” Antrican said.

The heat will take a greater toll on an old battery, Antrican said.

“Heat cooks a battery, so one already on the way out will likely be fried,” Antrican said. “If your battery is three or four years old, get it checked.”

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The heat is also expected to take a toll on plants.

Pete Kossoudji, owner of North Dayton Garden Center and Nursery, said the next three days will be critical for many lawns.

“Even though we’ve had some rain the past couple of days, there is not enough moisture in the lawn,” Kossoudji said.

Kossoudji recommends watering lawns, plants, trees and shrubs early in the morning or at dusk. He also said cutting grass longer, like raising the mover blade up to four inches, will keep more moisture in the lawn on blazing hot days.

“If your grass is cut longer, the sun can’t get to the roots as easily,” Kossoudji said.

As far as the amount of water to give plants, Kossoudji said it should be enough to get below the roots.

“Water, don’t sprinkle,” Kossoudji said.

Vrydaghs said this heat spell should break on Monday, with highs in the middle 80s.

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