The hottest stretch of the summer is arriving across the Sandhills, with afternoon temperatures climbing into the upper 90s and heat index values approaching or topping 100 degrees. That means now is the time to take extra precautions to protect yourself, your family, and your pets from dangerous heat.
Whether you’re spending the day at the pool, heading to a Fourth of July celebration, working outside, or enjoying a round of golf around Pinehurst, prolonged exposure to extreme heat can quickly become dangerous.
The National Weather Service encourages everyone across Moore County to slow down, stay hydrated, and limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day.
Sandhills Heat Safety Starts With Smart Planning
When temperatures soar, your body works much harder to stay cool. That’s why experts recommend limiting strenuous outdoor activities between late morning and early evening when temperatures are at their highest.
If you must be outside, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, take frequent breaks in the shade, and drink plenty of water—even if you don’t feel thirsty. Alcohol and excessive caffeine can increase dehydration, making it even harder for your body to regulate its temperature.
If you don’t have air conditioning at home, consider spending part of the afternoon in an air-conditioned public building such as a local library, community center, shopping center, or other public facility.
Know the Signs of Heat Illness
Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly, especially during periods of high humidity.
- Heat Cramps: Painful muscle cramps and heavy sweating.
- Heat Exhaustion: Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, pale or clammy skin, and possible fainting.
- Heat Stroke: A medical emergency marked by a body temperature above 106 degrees, hot dry skin, confusion, or unconsciousness. Call 911 immediately if you suspect heat stroke.
If someone begins showing signs of heat exhaustion, move them to a cool place immediately, loosen clothing, apply cool wet towels, and encourage small sips of water if they are alert.
Don’t Forget Your Pets
Our four-legged family members are especially vulnerable during extreme heat. Walk dogs early in the morning or after sunset when sidewalks are cooler. Hot pavement can burn sensitive paw pads in just a few minutes.
Never leave a pet inside a parked vehicle, even for a short time. Interior temperatures can climb to life-threatening levels within minutes.
Always provide plenty of fresh water and shade, and watch for signs of overheating, including excessive panting, drooling, weakness, or difficulty walking. If your pet appears to be suffering from heat stress, move them to a cool location and contact your veterinarian immediately.
Stay Safe During This Week’s Heat
With several days of dangerous heat expected across Southern Pines, Aberdeen, Pinehurst, Carthage, and communities throughout Moore County, residents should check on older neighbors, young children, and anyone without reliable air conditioning.
Simple precautions can make all the difference. Stay hydrated, take frequent breaks, wear lightweight clothing, and avoid unnecessary outdoor activity during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Stay with Star 102.5 for the latest forecast updates, weather alerts, and local news from across Moore County and the Sandhills.
