JOURNAL STAFF
It seems like a typical summer in Shreveport-Bossier – swimmers at the local pools, people mowing their yards, golfers on the local courses, tennis players (and pickleballers) on the local courts, kids out playing at local parks, and families enjoying watersports on local lakes.
But it’s not your typical summer here, or anywhere else in the United States. On Wednesday, the National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning for Shreveport-Bossier in addition to prompting alerts in 28 states.
Dozens of temperature records are expected to be broken in the coming days – with Texas and Oklahoma already reaching highs of 115 degrees. In addition, the sweltering heat in Great Britain has caused a state of emergency – with Londoners urged not to use the city’s transport network.
Obviously, you don’t need to be reminded that it is hot outside. But here’s a reminder – the hottest month on average for Shreveport-Bossier hasn’t even arrived. With an average high of 93.7 degrees, August is historically the hottest month around here.
Before you think about how hot it will be next month, consider this: the average temperature so far for July 2022 is 94 degrees. Now imagine how hot it will be over the next six weeks.
If you’re going to be spending time outside, it’s important to understand how dangerous this type of heat can be to your skin. For answers to questions about the heat and tips to stay safe, the Journal spoke to Dr. Sarah Glorioso of Ark-La-Tex Dermatology.
SBJ: What is the most important thing for people to realize about the record-breaking heat we are experiencing?
Dr. G: This amount of heat can be dangerous and it’s important to stay hydrated and not to overexert yourself outdoors. Seek shade, wear loose-fitting and sun-protective clothing, and apply sunscreen when outside. Also, certain medications can make you more likely to dehydrate — be aware of your medication’s side effects.
SBJ: What is the most common problem you see resulting from this extreme heat wave?
Dr. G: As dermatologists, we are seeing severe sunburns from patients who are outside without sunscreen or forgetting to reapply. I am also seeing an increase in heat rashes this year. The ER’s and urgent care centers are seeing heat strokes and dehydration, which are very serious and can be deadly.
SBJ: What are some lasting effects that can be caused from our daily exposure?
Dr. G: Repeat daily exposure from the sun can cause skin cancer, dry skin, and premature aging. If you have a heat stroke, it can cause permanent damage.
SBJ: What are some things people can do to cope with the heat?
Dr. G: Stay hydrated, stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, wear loose clothing, wear sunscreen and sun-protective clothing. Also, make sure to not leave anyone or animals in the car.
SBJ: What are some common misconceptions people have about this type of heat?
Dr. G: People think because they grew up in the South that they are already acclimated to this weather, but extreme heat can affect anyone. Athletes can push themselves too hard and need to be careful — just because you are “in-shape” or “young and healthy” doesn’t mean you are immune to heat exhaustion.
MORE TIPS: In “Fluid Play,” the Northwest Louisiana Community Tennis Association offers these hydration tips for competitors:
BEFORE: drink 12-16 ounces of fluids; DURING: drink 4-6 ounces after warm-up and on every changeover; AFTER: weigh before and after playing; then drink 20-24 ounces for every pound of post-play body weight deficit.
Next up in SBJ: Tips for taking care of your pets during the extreme heat wave. Stay tuned.
Photo by HARRIET PROTHRO PENROD
