URGENT – WEATHER MESSAGE / National Weather Service Birmingham AL

Blount-Etowah-Calhoun-Cherokee-Cleburne-Including the cities of Oneonta, Gadsden, Anniston, Centre and Heflin

HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM CDT WEDNESDAY

* WHAT

Heat index values up to 107.

* WHERE

Blount, Etowah, Calhoun, Cherokee and Cleburne Counties.

* WHEN

Until 9 PM CDT Wednesday.

* IMPACTS

Hot temperatures and high humidity – may cause heat illnesses to occur.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

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. 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 the heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.

Heat stroke is an emergency!  Call 9-1-1 Immediately.