Heat index to climb into dangerous levels in Triangle, Sandhills

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Heat indexes in the Triangle and Sandhills are expected to hit dangerous temperatures Monday.

Summer has really cranked up the heat over the last week, and that hot and humid air is sticking around.

Temperatures in the Triangle on Monday will reach into the upper 90s with a high heat index of 98 degrees. The heat index in the Sandhills could peak at 106 degrees.

This increasingly humid weather is nothing to take lightly.

Wake County EMS responded to nearly two dozen heat-related incidents in June.

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Summer has really cranked up the heat this week.

"You may think that may not be a dramatic number - but in most months that are not in the heat waves, we don't see typically any calls that are related to that, so that's predictable it's going to happen," Assistant Chief Jeffrey Hammerstein said. "The other key is that it's very preventable."

Hydration and limited time in the sun are key to beating the heat.

"Drink a lot of water, don't drink things with caffeine in them because that will make you get dehydrated," said Erika Robbins, Durham County EMT. "Drink water. Listen to your body. If you start feeling bad, get out of the sun at least get into AC if you can, and if you start to feel really bad call 911."

Experiencing heat-related problems? Tell us about them here.

If you have to be outside, the most important thing is to stay hydrated. Make sure you drink plenty of water. Carry an insulated container that keeps your water and ice cold.

If you exercise or do other outdoor activities, try to schedule them for early morning or later in the evening when the temperatures aren't so brutal.

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AccuWeather explains how heat waves form.

SEE ALSO: What is a heat wave? How heat waves form and temperatures climb

Wearing light-colored clothing, which reflects sunlight, may help keep you cooler. Avoid black or other dark colors, which absorb sunlight. Sports-apparel makers have garments made specifically for extreme temperatures that wick moisture away from your skin and have breathable fabrics to help keep you cooler.

And remember, never leave your children or pets inside vehicles, even for a few minutes. If you have outdoor pets, make sure they have shady rest areas and plenty of water.

Check the latest forecast here.

Don't forget your outdoor plants - they often suffer under extreme heat and their water evaporates quickly. Water more often!

With heat exhaustion, you may feel faint or dizzy, get muscle cramps and have excessive sweating. With heat stroke, you can have a throbbing headache, no sweating and lose consciousness.

If you have heat stroke, you should call 911 immediately and try to cool down before help arrives.

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