Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot

Meteorologists are predicting dangerous heat and poor air quality settling over northern New Jersey over the next couple of days as the region will experience the first heat wave of 2011, according to Accuweather.com.

Weather officials are forecasting a heat advisory for both Wednesday and Thursday from noon to 8 p.m. with excessive heat and humidity making temperatures feel well above 100 degrees.

Christopher Freer, medical director for the emergency department at Saint Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, cautions people to use common sense.

On days like these, those most at risk are young children and the elderly.

"We don't see many problems with heat strokes, but we do see the elderly who aren't properly hydrated or don’t have air-conditioned apartments," said Freer.

Forecasters are calling for temperatures in the high 90s for Springfield and the surrounding area, according to the National Weather Service.

"Heat waves become most dangerous when the nights begin to be quite warm.  This means those without AC cannot catch a break, making for a cumulative dangerous situation," said Dr. David Robinson, the state's climatolgist.

According to Accuweather.com, a heat advisory is issued when the combination of heat and humidity is expected to make it feel like it is 100 to 104 degrees for two consecutive hours.

People who work or spend time outside during those hours should take extra precautions during those time periods, including rescheduling strenuous activities.

Accuweather forecasters also forecast an air quality alert – meaning air quality in the region may approach or exceed unhealthy quality.

Heatstroke symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, headache, muscle cramps and dizziness. Most importantly, Freer warned people not to mix alcohol or drugs with the sun.

"The other people we see in the emergency department are those intoxicated with alcohol and drugs. Perception and common sense can be affected," said Freer. "Their regular judgment and common sense has deteriorated due to the effect of the alcohol and they can be at a high risk”