A Heat Advisory remains in effect for Lincoln and Lancaster County through 9 p.m. Tuesday as dangerously hot and humid conditions continue across southeast Nebraska.
The National Weather Service says heat index values could reach 105 degrees Sunday through Tuesday. Forecasters also warn overnight heat index values will remain in the mid-70s to lower 80s, making it difficult for homes without air conditioning to cool down. Hot weather is expected to persist through much of the week.
The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department is urging residents to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.
“Hot temperatures and high humidity increase the risk of heat-related illness,” the department said in a news release issued Saturday.
Health officials say everyone is susceptible to heat illness, but those at greatest risk include infants and young children, pregnant people, older adults, people with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers, those who exercise outside, individuals without access to air conditioning or drinking water, and pets and livestock.
Residents are encouraged to limit outdoor activity to the cooler morning or evening hours, wear loose-fitting light-colored clothing, use sunscreen, rest frequently in shaded or air-conditioned locations, and drink plenty of water before becoming thirsty. Officials also recommend limiting alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
The Health Department reminds residents that Lincoln City Libraries, Lincoln Parks and Recreation centers, and the Victory Park Senior Center are available as cooling centers during normal business hours. Aging Partners also has a limited supply of fans available on a first-come, first-served basis for adults age 60 and older.
Officials urge residents to check on relatives, friends, and neighbors, particularly those who live alone or are at higher risk for heat-related illness. Children and pets should never be left unattended in parked vehicles.
Anyone who may be struggling because of the heat can contact CenterPointe Street Outreach at 402-782-1199 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. daily. More urgent situations should be reported to the Lincoln Police Department non-emergency line at 402-441-6000 or by calling 911.
Pet owners are encouraged to provide animals with plenty of fresh water and shade, keep them off hot pavement, and bring them indoors whenever possible. Anyone who sees a pet left in a hot vehicle or without adequate shade or water for an extended period should contact Animal Control at 402-441-7900.
Health officials say residents should know the warning signs of heat illness. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, rapid heartbeat, cool, clammy skin, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Heat stroke is a medical emergency marked by a body temperature above 103 degrees, hot red skin, confusion, dizziness, or loss of consciousness. Anyone experiencing symptoms should be moved to a cool location immediately, and emergency medical assistance should be sought if heat stroke or severe heat exhaustion is suspected.
Additional information on cooling centers and heat safety resources is available at lincoln.ne.gov/Heat
At the time of this posting, the National Weather Service websites are not accessible. Another source with similar information for Lincoln is Wunderground.com