Officials warn of heat exhaustion, heat stroke while exercising during heat wave
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
This is a week has an alert for excessive heat warning through Thursday with heat index being more than 105 degrees each day according to ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather Team.
Dr. Chris Sampson -- and emergency room doctor at University Hospital -- warned that dizziness, nausea and a racing heart are initial signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Kelsey Angle -- who is the head meteorologist of the National Weather Service's Springfield office -- shared crucial tips for exercising during extreme heat.
"It's important to wear light, loose-fitting clothing when exercising in the sun," Angle said. "This will help mitigate the heat's impact and allow your body to cool more effectively."
Sampson recommends hydrating before starting physical activity.
State Emergency Management Agency spokeswoman Katy Linnebrink emphasized the importance of checking local weather forecasts and avoiding the heat around midday.
"A heat index of 103 or above is dangerous. Prolonged exposure or intense physical activity in these conditions can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, heat cramps, and other heat-related illnesses," Linnebrink said.
Columbia resident Asia Long shared her personal strategies for summer workouts while she was exercising Tuesday at Stephens Lake Park.
"I try to go after 7 p.m. I always have my Stanley water bottle with me and use a sunscreen specifically for Black girls to prevent chafing and sunburn. I also make sure to have my watch and phone with me at all times," Long said.
Sampson told ABC 17 News in an email that some possible solutions for those experiencing heat exhaustion include getting into the shade or a cooled building and applying a cold towel. He said dangerous signs of heatstroke include losing consciousness and experiencing seizures. He said that people experiencing dangerous symptoms should call 911.
