Heat leading cause of weather related death in 2022, National Weather Service reports

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

According to the National Weather Service, extreme heat was the leading cause of weather-related deaths in 2022, with 148 people dying as a result.

Temperatures in Mid-Missouri could reach above 100 degrees this week, which could become potentially dangerous. Boone County Fire Protection District Assistant Chief Gale Blomenkamp said heat-related deaths can be avoided by people limiting their exposure to the sun.

"Short work cycles, limited activity outdoors, limited exercise outdoors, limited sports outdoors and really just take care of themselves and take care of neighbors and families," Blomenkamp said.

Blomenkamp said people should also drink double the amount of water than they normally would if they're in extreme heat, and watching out for signs that you could be suffering from heat exhaustion, including:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Feeling lightheaded
• Excessive sweating

Blomenkamp also noted that if you notice you or someone else is no longer sweating, this is a very dangerous sign. Immediately upon noticing these signs, you should move to a cool area, whether than be a vehicle or home and put icepacks under your armpits or near your groin area.

PETA also reports that in 2022, 54 animals died from heat related injuries, and 34 have already died so far this year. Blomenkamp said this is why it's important for people to be cautious when taking their pets out in the heat.

"Make sure you know, you walk them in the mornings, or walk them in the evenings when things are cooler," Blomenkamp said. "Walk them on the grass, if you're walking on the sidewalk let them walk on the grass. Don't walk them on the asphalt or concrete because it could get very hot."

Something to also keep in mind during the heat is making sure you never leave a child unattended in a car, even for a short period of time. According to Kids and car safety, 36 children died as a result of heat-related injuries in 2022.

Blomenkamp noted that a car with all of the windows rolled up can reach 120 degrees within minutes. That being said, he said you should never leave a child alone in a car, and if you come across a child that has been left unattended, you should call 911 and stay with the child until emergency services arrive.

"You can always call 911 and that will be an emergency response from law enforcement, EMS and fire services," Blomenkamp said. "So stay with that kid, stay by the car, do what you can...check the doors do whatever that may be to get the kid out of the car."