Birmingham heat index reaches 107—tips to stay cool + safe

With heat indices expected to reach up to 107°F this week, Alabama is bracing for a dangerous heat wave. These extreme temperatures pose serious health risks, especially for vulnerable individuals, pets and those spending extended time outdoors.

Here are key tips to help you stay cool, safe, and hydrated—as well as signs of heat-related illnesses to watch for.

• Want tips for staying cool across Alabama? Check here.
• Need some indoor activities this summer? Click this.
• Seeking more tips? Read this.

Alabama temperatures are rising!

It’s going to be a scorcher this weekend, Birmingham! The National Weather Service warns that when the heat index rises above 105°F, the risk of heat-related illnesses increases significantly. Some of the most common concerns include:

• Heat stroke is possible with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity
• Sunstroke
• Heat cramps
• Heat exhaustion

Knowing the risks is the first step—here’s how to prevent them.

How to prevent heat exhaustion

Before heading outside, follow these expert-approved tips to protect yourself:

• Slow down. Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day. Individuals at risk should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors.
• Dress for summer. Lightweight, light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight, and helps your body maintain normal temperatures.
• Drink plenty of water or non-alcoholic fluids. Your body needs water to keep cool. Drink plenty of fluids even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Do not drink alcoholic beverages.
• Spend more time in air-conditioned places. Air conditioning in homes and other buildings markedly reduces danger from the heat. If you cannot afford an air conditioner, spending some time each day (during hot weather) in an air-conditioned environment affords some protection.
• Don’t get too much sun. Sunburn makes the job of heat dissipation that much more difficult.

Local resources to help the heat

Need help staying cool? Check out these community-based tips and resources:

• Facebook groups and local community pages often share free resources like fans, water and cooling centers.
• Assistance with utility bills may be available for those struggling to afford air conditioning—check with local nonprofits or Alabama Power.
• Home cooling tips: Install or maintain your A/C, seal gaps around windows and doors, and use blackout curtains to keep heat out.

How to keep your pets safe

Let’s not forget our four-legged friends! Pets are just as vulnerable to heat as humans. Here’s how to keep them safe:

• Keep them hydrated. Refill their water bowls regularly, and ensure the water stays cool. If it’s too warm for you to drink, it’s too warm for them.
• Provide shade or bring them indoors. Limit outdoor time and avoid leaving pets in hot or unshaded areas.
• Protect their paws. Hot concrete can cause painful burns. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their feet.

As Alabama heats up, a few smart precautions can go a long way. Whether you’re commuting to work, walking your dog or just trying to stay comfortable indoors, beating the heat is possible with preparation and awareness.

Stay cool, Birmingham!

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