More than 141 million people have been facing advisories in a heat wave that has broiled 34 states with 100 plus temperatures across the country, and the unrelenting heat is responsible for at least 22 deaths.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures were expected to reach the middle or upper 90s Thursday. Combined with high humidity levels, that pushed afternoon heat index values to between 105 and 115 degrees.
The high temperature recorded at the Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport in Vienna was 97 degrees at 4:24 p.m. It only stayed there a few minutes before falling back to 96, but 97 was the official high for the day.
The heat and humidity took its toll on students Thursday afternoon in Youngstown at an outdoor track and field event at Cardinal Mooney High School. An ambulance took one girl to the hospital after she fell ill, likely the result of heat exhaustion.
The fun day was hosted by Youngstown's Parks and Recreation Department.
"We have plenty of Gatorade, we have water, we have juice and we have the paramedics and fire department here to help us," said program organizer Alicia Anderson.
Firefighters and paramedics had a tent set up to handle any problems and Youngstown Fire Capt. Barry Finley said quite a few students needed medical attention because of the heat and not taking in enough fluids.
"We talked with all the counselors before all this started and we told them that you have to watch your kids. You have to watch for the cramping, you have to watch for the profuse sweating, and most important is when they stop sweating because then we really have a problem," Finley said.
In all, two girls went to the hospital, one by ambulance and the other by a relative. Several other students were picked up by their parents.
In Trumbull County, the Newton Falls Police department is taking extra precautions to make sure residents can get heat relief.
Newton Falls Police Chief John Kuivila said the extreme heat has caused him to have serious concerns for all citizens, especially the elderly and young children. To help those who may not have access to air conditioners, both City Hall and the Newton Falls Community Center are available for heat relief.
"As long as the weather is like this, you can come in here, we are going to be open until 8 p.m. and anyone in the community is welcome," said Mel Wilson of the Newton Falls Community Center.
If an elderly resident is unable to get to the community center or City Hall, they can contact the police department, which will try to provide transportation.
"The last thing we want is to have somebody have a problem with heat stroke or get injured because of it. We prefer to find a way to help people out and make sure they have an opportunity to get relief if we can," Kuivila said.
Officials also ask residents to check on their elderly neighbors and make sure they are staying cool and getting plenty of fluids.
Those who have to be out in the heat say water and frequent breaks are a must.
Members of Howland High School's marching band began mini camps this week, and due to the heat, their director began practice early in the day. The band also takes frequent water breaks every 10 to 15 minutes so they can all cool off.
"We are givng them frequent water breaks. This is our third water break in the last hour. We are concerend about their health and won't keep them out here too much longer," said band director Greg Rezabek.
Those working outside also need to take precautions.
"I think the biggest thing they can do is maintain good hydration, lots of breaks, lots of water, use shade whenever possible, wear a hat to help limit exposure," said Dr. Trey Woods of St. Joseph Urgent Care.
Local carpenters working on a bridge on state Route 82 in Howland said the bright sun and extreme heat does make their jobs challenging. Workers said the best way to cope, is to take frequent breaks and drink water.
"Don't wait until you are so thirsty that you go over there and drink a gang of water. You will just throw it up and be in a worse position," said worker Bruce Bloomberg.
The National Weather Service recommends the following tips for dealing with the heat:- Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside.
- When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
- Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
- Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.
- To reduce risk during outdoor work the occupational safety and health administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments.
- Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency and you should call 911.
Cooling centers that have been set up in the Valley include: Lawrence County
- Challenges Options on Aging, 2706 Mercer Road, New Castle, open between 7 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday.
- Scottish Rite Cathedral, 110 E. Lincoln Ave., during daylight hours Thursday and Friday.
Trumbull County
- Newton Falls Community Center, 52 E. Quarry St., Newton Falls, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Newton Falls City Hall, 19 N. Canal, Newton Falls.
- Salvation Army, 270 Franklin St. S.E., Warren, until 4 p.m.
- Howland Administration Building, 205 Niles-Cortland Road
- Howland SCOPE Center, 8273 High St.
Mahoning County
- Salvation Army, 1501 Glenwood Ave., Youngstown, Thursday and Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
