SACRAMENTO, California — The upcoming Northern California heatwave will hover around triple digits for the next five days, but it won't be the kind of heat we're used to feeling.
Although Californians are used to these summer temperatures, the influx of humidity may make it feel hotter. Because California doesn’t see much humidity and is more of a "dry heat" state, our bodies have become accustomed to these almost desert-like conditions. So, when some humidity moves into California, it may start making you feel very uncomfortable.
The heat index is the temperature we “feel” when humidity and actual temperature are taken into account. For example, if it’s 90 degrees outside, but the humidity is 60 percent to the body, it feels closer to 100 degrees. That’s because humidity doesn’t allow our bodies to evaporate sweat at a normal rate that would cool us off.
These indexes are important, especially for those exerting a lot of energy outdoors. From construction workers to athletes, beating the heat is a matter of life and death.
A flux of moisture coming in from the Southwest will raise humidity levels as high as 74 percent in the early morning hours in Northern California. This moisture coming off the Mexican coastline will make outdoor activity more muggy.
The impacts of humidity combined with heat on our bodies can take a major toll. Heat stroke can occur in just minutes. The CDC says heat stroke can happen when the body reaches 103 degrees and your body is unable to cool itself down. This is especially prevalent in humid conditions when the body already can't evaporate sweat.
Some early warning signs of heat stroke include:
- faintness or dizziness
- confusion
- headache
- nausea
- fast, strong pulse
- hot, red, dry, or damp skin
- losing consciousness
The National Weather Service is citing a low potential heat risk for much of Sacramento. Surrounding areas east of I-5 and closer to the Foothills may experience moderate heat risk when it comes to these scorching temperatures beginning Wednesday and ending Sunday. Moderate heat risk stretches as far south as Stockton, Lodi, Modesto, Tracy, and Turlock.
You’re reminded to take these simple precautions to keep you and your family safe in the heat:
- stay hydrated
- avoid caffeine
- limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours of 10 am to about 5:00 pm
- dress for the heat
- check on elderly, kids, and pets.
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