CULLMAN – The National Weather Service in Huntsville has issued a HEAT ADVISORY for our area from noon until 7 p.m. today, Friday, July 21.
The advisory is in effect for the following counties in Alabama:
- Lauderdale
- Colbert
- Franklin
- Lawrence
- Limestone
- Madison
- Morgan
- Marshall
- Cullman
Temperatures well into the mid to upper 90s will produce heat index values in the 105 to 109 degree range again Friday afternoon. The combination of heat and humidity will lead to an increased risk of heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke and dehydration for those outside or without air conditioning. Additionally, car interiors will reach lethal temperatures within a matter of minutes.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to the evening period. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light-weight and loose-fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water. Check up on relatives and neighbors. Absolutely do not leave children or pets unattended in vehicles! 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 911.
Hazardous Weather Outlook
Today and Tonight… Dangerous heat will impact much of the Tennessee Valley again today, due to the very hot and humid air mass in place. Daytime highs will range from the mid 90s to around 100 degrees. These temperatures, combined with the humidity, will produce dangerously high heat indices in the 105 to 109 degree range this afternoon. The heat index will likely remain above 100 degrees well into the evening. A Heat Advisory has been issued from 12 to 7 p.m. today for most of northern Alabama and all of southern middle Tennessee. Caution is advised when conducting outdoor activities, especially during the peak heating of the day. Stay hydrated and take plenty of breaks.
Saturday through Thursday… The heat and humidity will continue into Saturday, though temperatures will likely be slightly cooler thanks to cloud cover and more shower and thunderstorm coverage. Still, heat index values will reach the 100 to 104 degree range across much of the region, with some areas across northwest and north central Alabama possibly exceeding 105 degrees. Another Heat Advisory may be issued on Saturday for parts of the forecast area. The potential for scattered thunderstorms returns to the forecast by Saturday afternoon. Thunderstorm chances increase heading into the Sunday through Monday time frame as an upper level disturbance and frontal boundary approach the region. Gusty winds, heavy downpours, and frequent lightning will accompany the stronger storms.
