Heat advisories expected through the weekend

Hillsborough County, Fla. (July 4, 2024) –  Hillsborough County is under a heat advisory today. The National Weather Service issued the heat advisory for the entire county effective today, July 4, through 6 p.m. Residents are encouraged to stay indoors, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable neighbors and loved ones. 

The heat advisory means that dangerously hot and humid conditions are expected with a heat index up to 111 degrees throughout Hillsborough County. The heat index is what the temperature feels like. Through the weekend, the heat index is expected to range from 106 to 112 degrees and additional advisories may be issued.

Hillsborough County’s Office of Emergency Management and its partners will continue to monitor the situation and offer guidance to residents.

Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur. Without taking precautions, heat-related illnesses or even death are possible. Residents can visit Hillsborough County’s Extreme Heat Information to learn about how to stay cool in Hillsborough County, how to stay safe during extreme heat, and more on heat-related illnesses.  

People without access to adequate air conditioning can take refuge in public places, including shopping malls. Reminder that today is Independence Day, so all libraries and government buildings in Hillsborough County are closed.

Residents who work or spend time outside during the hottest part of the day are encouraged to take precautions. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to the evening or early the next morning. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. 

To reduce risks during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends taking frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone suffering from a heat-related illness should be moved to a cool, shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency. Call 911 for immediate care.

Heat-related illnesses and deaths are largely preventable with proper planning, education, and action. Visit Heat.gov for information about how excessive heat affects your health and ways to reduce the impacts of extreme heat. 

Get Connected. Stay Alert. 

For more information on any other potential emergency in the county, visit HCFL.gov/StaySafe and sign up for the HCFL Alert system. Additionally, you can follow Hillsborough County on social media at Facebook, X, and Nextdoor for updates.

Top Image Caption: SummerHeat
Posted: 7/4/2024, 3:33:55 PM