Excessive Heat Warning for West Alabama – Saturday 1:15 p.m.

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for all of Central Alabama until 9 pm Sunday. An intense heat wave with near record high temperatures will continue with temperatures and heat indices climbing to potentially dangerous levels across Central Alabama.

Temperatures – 100 to 106 degrees today and 101 to 105 Sunday afternoon. With that in mind, the all time record high in Tuscaloosa is 107, we could approach that today.

* Heat index values – around 110 degrees Saturday and Sunday afternoon.
* Impacts – prolonged exposure to this heat can be dangerous if the proper precautions are not taken.

Precautionary/preparedness actions -

An Excessive Heat Warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures will occur. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.

To reduce risk during outdoor work the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency, call 9-1-1.

All areas around Central Alabama have the potential to break record highs today. Tuscaloosa’s previous record was 103 set back in 1954, we are already forecast to hit 106 today. It may be a heat wave for the record books. Stay cool out there. I’ll have your updated Home Team Forecast tonight on WVUA News at 10.

Daniel Sparkman
dsparkman@wvuatv.com
WVUA Weather