Heat Wave To Hit East Coast Wednesday: NOAA Tips On How To Survive Extreme Heat

Just days after the East Coast experienced an unusually cold Memorial Day weekend, four Northeastern U.S. states are forecasted to experience high temperatures starting Wednesday, meteorologists warning of a possible heat wave.

According to a report from Accuweather.com, Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Md., are forecast to hit 90 degrees or higher on Wednesday with temperatures continuing to rise until late Sunday.

East Coast states, including Philadelphia and New York, are expected to begin experiencing the heat wave starting Friday, with temperatures also expected to reach 90 degrees. According to the report, a wide region in upstate New York is also vulnerable to high temperatures for one or more days this week.

Accuweather.com expert Senior Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski said forecast humidity will take the upcoming heat wave all the more dangerous. Here are five tips from the National Weather Service, or NOAA, on how to prepare and stay safe during extreme heat:

1. Be aware of the signs of a heat-related illness. Exposure to the sun during high temperatures can result in heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Older individuals and young children are the most susceptible to these medical extremities; those who are obese, are suffering from a fever, a sunburn, heart disease, mental illness or poor circulation or use prescription drugs are the most at risk.

2. Persons or animals left inside vehicles during extreme heat are at risk of experiencing hyperthermia. Those left in parked vehicles, even with an open window, are susceptible to risks after only two minutes during a heat wave.

3. Remaining hydrated with water and avoiding caffeinated and alcoholic fluids is recommended. Salt tablets are reportedly best to be avoided if patients are approved to do so by a physician.

4. Wearing light-colored and lightweight material is best when trying to avoid hot temperatures, especially when planning prolonged outdoor activities. Time spent outside is also considered best if limited, especially for older adults, younger children and those with ongoing health conditions.

5. Those in homes without access to air conditioners are recommended to take advantage of public places such as libraries and stores that offer cold air to take refuge during mid-day when temperatures are usually at their highest.