On Tuesday, June 19, the National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for eastern North Carolina.

The hot and humid conditions are expected to continue Wednesday and Thursday with afternoon heat index values between 100 and 110 degrees.

Isolated strong to severe storms are possible Wednesday and Thursday afternoons. Gusty winds and heavy rain will be the primary threats.

Public health officials with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services are urging people to take steps to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses.

Symptoms of heat-related illness include muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, fainting, headaches, nausea and vomiting, states a media release.

Heat-related illness is preventable with proper precautions, states the release. However, every summer there are about 3,000 heat-related illness emergency department visits. Children, older individuals, outdoor workers and those with chronic health conditions are most vulnerable.
To reduce risk of heat-related illness:

— Increase fluid intake.

— Take frequent breaks in cool or air-conditioned places if spending extended time outside.

— Reduce normal activity levels.

— Check on neighbors, and if working outdoors, check on your co-workers.

— Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles, especially during warm or hot weather, as temperature levels inside a car can reach a lethal level in a matter of minutes.

— Speak with your physician about how to stay safe if you take medicines that make you more vulnerable to heat, such as drugs for high blood pressure, migraines, allergies, muscle spasms, mental illness and tranquilizers.