The heat is no joke and this year, it is impacting a large portion of the U.S.
As large swaths of the country continue to contend with extreme heat, knowing how to keep you and your loved ones safe this summer is key, especially since above-normal temperatures are expected to continue into August.
According to a report by the National Weather Service, heat killed more Americans in 2024 than any other major weather event, including floods and tornadoes. The 30-year outlook on weather related fatalities tells a similar story.
As temperatures increase, so does the risk of heat-related dangers and injuries, which occurs when the body is exposed to extreme heat or high humidity over an extended period of time. Either way, the consequences can be deadly.
“Though record high temperatures are expected in the coming days, the duration of the heat as demonstrated by the numerous record warm morning lows will make this period especially oppressive,” the NWS wrote June 20 on X. “Couple this with the fact that this is the first major heat wave of the year – when our bodies aren’t acclimated to the heat yet – will make for an especially dangerous period for many.”
Here’s what to know about heat stroke, including how to treat it.
What is heat stroke?
Heat stroke, as defined by Mayo Clinic, is a condition caused by the body overheating. The body overheats when it’s exposed to high temperatures or physical activity in high temperatures for “too long.”
Heatstroke, which is most common in the summer months, can happen if body temperature rises to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius), or higher. It is also the most serious heat-related illness.
A climber watches the sunrise from the summit of Piestewa Peak, the second highest point in the Phoenix Mountains, on July 16, 2023.
Other heat-related illnesses include heat exhaustion, rhabdomyolysis, heat syncope, heat cramps and heat rash.
More: What temperature to set your thermostat during summer heat wave?
According to the Mayo Clinic, heat stroke requires emergency care and can damage the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles if not treated. The longer treatment is delayed, the higher risk of serious complications or death.
Heat stroke: Common signs, symptoms
Anyone who works in hot environments or is exposed to extreme is are susceptible to heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, these life-threatening conditions occur “when the body can no longer control its temperature: the body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down.”
Common signs or symptoms of heat stroke include:
Confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech
Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating
Seizures/loss of consciousness
Extreme heat kills and maims: Here are some of its victims from across the US
How to treat heat stroke
If you think you, or anyone around you, is experiencing a heat stroke, call 911 or your local emergency services number immediately.
As you wait for medical help to arrive, you can render first aid in these ways:
Get the person out of direct sunlight, preferably the shade or indoors
Remove any unnecessary clothing
Cool the person with whatever means available (Ice pack, pool/tub of water, garden hose, water bottle, mister, damp sponge, or a wet towel)
Contributing: Joel Shannon and Julie Gomez, USA TODAY
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is heat stroke? Signs, symptoms and treatment
