Dangerous heat expected during Cow Creek Tribal Pow Wow
Temperatures around Southern Oregon are expected to push into the 100’s this weekend, as Cow Creek Tribal citizens gather for the 45th Annual Cow Creek Tribal Pow Wow at South Umpqua Falls.
Cow Creek Emergency Management officials are reminding everyone to monitor their time spent in the heat because heat-related illnesses can come on quickly and with little warning.
When the body gets too hot, the heart works harder to pump blood and cool the skin, while sweat is also removing fluids out of the body. Without proper hydration and cooling, a medical emergency can quickly arise. People who become overheated can suddenly experience dangerous reactions, such as cramping, dehydration and heat stroke. Heat-related illnesses are especially dangerous for the elderly, young children, people who work outdoors, or those with prior medical conditions.
Experts say people can endure temperatures up to 95 degrees Fahrenheit at 100% humidity or 115 degrees Fahrenheit at 50% humidity.
In Douglas County this weekend, temperatures are expected to be in the upper 90’s. The humidity is expected to be around 30%. Temperatures at South Umpqua Falls, where elevation is higher, could be slightly lower, but still likely in the 90’s.
Cow Creek Emergency Management is warning everyone to limit outdoor activities, stay hydrated, and if you begin to sweat profusely, get in the pool or get indoors with some AC until you cool off.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the following are warning signs of heat stroke:
- High body temperature. A core body temperature of 104 F or higher is the main sign of heatstroke.
- Altered mental state or behavior. Confusion, agitation, slurred speech, irritability, delirium, seizures and coma can all result from heatstroke.
- Alteration in sweating. In heatstroke brought on by hot weather, your skin will feel hot and dry to the touch. However, in heatstroke brought on by strenuous exercise, your skin may feel dry or slightly moist.
- Nausea and vomiting. You may feel sick to your stomach or vomit.
- Flushed skin. Your skin may turn red as your body temperature increases.
- Rapid breathing. Your breathing may become rapid and shallow.
- Racing heart rate. Your pulse may significantly increase because heat stress places a tremendous burden on your heart to help cool your body.
- Headache. Your head may throb.
If you witness anyone in distress such as those conditions listed above, summon help ASAP for a medical emergency.
Pets and animals also need to keep cool when the temperature gets too hot. Make sure pets have plenty of water to drink. Dogs don’t sweat, they release most of their body heat by panting. You can help cool them down by wetting their fur. Also, dogs do not have sufficient cooling insulation on their paws. A good rule of thumb if taking your dog for a walk: If it’s too hot for you to walk barefoot, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.
Remember to never leave a person or animal in a parked car. Even with a window slightly cracked open, cars can reach dangerous temperatures when left in direct sunlight. When the temperature outside is between 80 to 100 degrees, expect the internal temperature of your car to reach between 131 to 172 degrees Fahrenheit.
