Combating the Heat Dome - Extreme Heat in the United States
By Ron Laikind
Temperatures will be soaring in the United States this week as the Eastern half of the United States is invaded by heat that will be pushing thermometers up to and over 90°F for over 80% of the population. The Northeast and Midwest is being threatened by a weather event known as a 'heat dome'. This phenomena is caused by hot ocean air being trapped over land as if it was in a dome or cap. They can be caused by high-pressure systems in the atmosphere and can grow to be very large. Currently, 17 states from Iowa to Maine are under a heat warning from the National Weather Service due to the excessive heat. Consequently, this means that the risk of heat illness and death will be higher this week than in any previous week this year. Trying to find solutions for the hottest week of the year so far? Here are a few tips:
Stay Hydrated - It's always important to be drinking water, but especially during extended heat waves. Try to drink at least a gallon of water every day. If you're spending any amount of time outside, try to drink at least 1 cup of water (8 ounces) every 15-20 minutes. However, make sure not to drink more than 48 ounces in one hour. Looking for a way to stay both hydrated and cool at the same time? Try the GoMist Misting & Drinking Bottle that you can sip from and also get misted with the touch of a button on its high-tech cap.|
Get out of the Sun - You can dramatically mitigate the risk of suffering a heat-related illness or sunburn by finding shade whenever possible. Public places will almost always have a shaded structure that will give you some relief from the sun during this scorching heat wave. This week is also not the best time to plan a round of golf or get out on a pickleball court, stay inside and try a new board game or make some snow cones instead! If you feel any of the symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke coming on, get out of the sun immediately and rest for a while, drinking plenty of water.
Use Personal Cooling Systems - Technology is your friend when the temperatures rise higher and higher. There are plenty of innovative products that can give you the perfect amount of cooling and create your ideal climate even during the hottest days of the year. Mist can cool the air up to 30°F and make your time outside refreshing and comfortable. Try the ExtremeMIST 4 Nozzle Portable Misting System to set up a personal paradise wherever you'd like with 4 nozzles and 16 feet of mist line. It's perfect for cooling down your golf cart, beach chair, canopy, patio, or shade structure.
Air Conditioning is your Friend - The safest way to ensure the brutal heat isn't going to affect you this week is to stay inside during the day, especially during peak heat hours (which is usually from 3-6pm). Even if natural light is streaming through your windows, your air conditioning should be able to keep with the temperature outside as long as it has been properly tuned and maintained. It's always a good idea to have your air conditioning inspected and tuned prior to the summer season to have the best chance of it running smooth and cool over the course of the year.
Spend Time Poolside - Still want to spend some time outside this week? Find the nearest pool! Pools will provide relief from the heat, as long as you're following all the necessary precautions. Wear sunscreen, drink water, and limit how long you're in the pool at one time to stay safe. Alternatively, try an early morning or night swim to avoid the hottest hours of the day.
How are you staying cool this summer? Keep up to date with all the latest portable cooling innovations and misting products with ExtremeMIST.
