The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for Houston from 1-6 p.m. Saturday, as the heat index is expected to rise above 108 degrees.
The heat index is a measure of how hot it really feels when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature. This is better explained as what the heat "feels like" rather than the actual temperature outside.
NWS also says a "cold" front will push through the area Saturday night, which should bring temperatures slightly down overnight and into Sunday.
Houston residents should take steps to reduce their exposure to extreme heat. TheHouston Health Department recommends that residents take the following steps to keep themselves cool:
**Increase water consumption. Drink lots of liquids even before getting thirsty, but avoid those with caffeine, alcohol or large amounts of sugar because these can actually result in the loss of body fluid.
**Conduct outdoor work or exercise in the early morning or evening when it is cooler. Outdoor workers should drink plenty of water or electrolyte-replacement beverages and take frequent breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned facility. Those unaccustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment need to start slowly and gradually increase heat exposure over several weeks.
**Wear light-colored, loose fitting clothing that permits the evaporation of perspiration.
**Do not leave children, senior citizens or pets unattended in a vehicle.
**A wide-brimmed hat helps prevent sunburn as well as heat-related illness. Sunscreen also protects from the sun’s harmful rays and reduces the risk of sunburn.