GRAYSON COUNTY, TX - Tuesday was the thirteenth consecutive day of triple-digit heat in Texoma, the longest streak since 1998. And when it gets very hot outside, your risk of heat-related illnesses skyrockets.
On Tuesday afternoon, the National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for the state of Texas, in effect until 9 p.m. Thursday, which means it will feel like it's 105 degrees outside during the day and about 80 degrees at night. I spoke with a health professional about what you can do to protect yourself in this type of weather.
As Shane Argus practiced for an evening softball tournament, he said he wished the games would've started later.
"I wish they would've waited a little bit longer during the day. You know, 6:30 we don't need to be here and play eight games, but you gotta do what you gotta do. Drink plenty of water and win," he said.
He's learned to drink plenty of water to avoid heat illness, something he said he's experienced firsthand.
"You get heat aches you know? And especially when you get behind in the game with the heat coming down on you. You know your head will start hurting, just got to remember it's for fun and cool down for a little bit," he said.
Marshall Ward with the Grayson County Health Department said people need to schedule outdoor activities early in the morning or later in the evening because being outside in extreme heat can increase someone's risk of a heat related illness or injury.
"If a person begins to feel light headed, if you realize that you're no longer perspiring, throbbing headache for example, fatigue, those are a few symptoms that may represent the potential for heat exhaustion," he said.
And Ward said triple-digit heat also increases the risk of dehydration.
"First of all, you need to drink more water than average, especially under these type of extreme heat conditions. Make sure to avoid alcoholic beverages and also other beverages with high sugar contents."
But if you have to be outside, Ward says dress accordingly.
"Make sure to wear clothing that is light weight, light colored and loose fitting. Also, it's very advisable to wear a hat that is large brimmed. Also, don't forget about your sunscreen."
Ward also stressed to pay attention to children, pets, and the elderly because they are the most affected by the extreme heat.
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