Meteorology Charles A. Giannetta
Meteorologist - Professor
Heat kills by taxing the human body. In a year about 200 Americans
succumb to the summer heat. Only the winter takes more lives. In the
heat wave of 1980 more than 1,250 died from direct causes of heat.
Considering the death toll, efforts have been stepped up to alert the
public and authorities to the hazards of prolonged heat waves through the:
"Heat Index."
The Heat Index is devised for shady, light windy conditions. Exposure to
full sunshine will increase the values by 15 degrees F. Strong winds, with
very hot, dry air, can be extremely dangerous.
The National Weather Service will alert the public when the "Heat Index" will
exceed 105 Degrees. for at least two consecutive days, by issuing Special Weather
Statements and Public Information Statements which includes, The "Heat Index"
values, who is at risk, safety rules for reducing the risk. Assist the state and
local officials in preparing Civil Emergency Messages in severe heat waves.
| "How Heat Affects The Body"
|
Humans dissipate heat by varying the rate of blood circulation. By sweating,
losing water through the skin, by panting when the blood is heated above normal
body temperature (98.6 Degrees F.) The heart pumps more blood, the blood vessels
dilate to help the increase flow. The skin handles most of the body's heat
dissipation function.
Sweating alone does not cool the body unless the water is removed from our
bodies by evaporation, however, when the relative humidity is high evaporation
is retarded.
Heat disorders may cause a reduction or cease of the body's ability to ward
off heat when the temperature and humidity exceeds the level the human body can
coupe. The temperature of the body's inner core begins to rise and heat illness
may occur. At this point the person has overexposed or overexcerised depending
on the age and physical condition of oneself.
Long intervals of exposure to the sun, ultraviolet radiation and sunburn can
retard the body's ability to shed excessive heat.
The severity of many problems associated with excessive much heat for the body
are increased with age. "Heat Cramps" for a young person may be heat exhaustion or
heat stroke for someone older.
| "Inner Cities Pose Special Problems"
|
In the inner cities when the temperature and humidity are high, and light winds,
air becomes stagnant and trap pollutants which are added to the causes of problems
related to excessive and humidity. Many homes do not have air conditioners to help
reduce the high heat and humidity. Many deaths are related to this occurrence. Many
people with air conditioners many not have enough money to pay for the high utility
cost and turn their air conditioners off and may become ill or dye as a result.
| "How to Prevent Heat Related Illness and Possible Death"
|
Older and elderly people, your children, people with chronic health problems,
those on medications, overweight and alcohol problems are very susceptible to
reaction from excessive heat and humidity during long periods of a heat wave.
"Weather By Giannetta"
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