A severe heat wave is sweeping across the United States, and it may be unusually difficult to escape.
Nearly two-thirds of the continental US could feel the effects of an unusually large and long-lasting heat dome, according to the . The Associated Press. The National Weather Service estimates that more than 90 local temperature records could be set or broken by Wednesday, with triple-digit high temperatures expected in parts of the West and Northern Plains.
In some areas, temperatures can reach or exceed 110°F. But for anyone planning an outdoor run, bike ride or workout, the biggest mistake they can make is assuming you can easily accomplish it.
The heat mistake that can turn dangerous fast
According to this, people who exercise in hot weather are more likely to become dehydrated and develop heat-related illness Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The problem is that early warning signs can feel like the normal discomfort of a tough workout.
CDC Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, thirst, heavy sweating and elevated body temperature. If you feel faint or weak, the agency recommends stopping the activity and going to a cool place.
Ignoring those signs can worsen heat illness.
Why might this heat wave be especially dangerous?
The National Weather Service expects more than two-thirds of the potential record by Wednesday to include overnight heat, the AP reports. Hot nights matter because the body gets little respite after hours of daytime heat.
“Nights can be just as dangerous as days,” meteorologist Bob Henson told the AP. “Heat is not to be messed with.”
Check local heat alerts, move training indoors when conditions become dangerous, hydrate, and don’t take dizziness or unusual weakness as a test of toughness.
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