Heat reaches ‘dangerous levels’ on Hilton Head beaches, rescue calls on pace for record
July 2023 may end up being the most dangerous month for heat-related emergency calls on Hilton Head beaches in the past five years. Islanders and visitors are sweltering under record-breaking heat waves that are scorching the East Coast from the Carolinas to Miami.
Beach patrol crews responded to 42 heat-related emergencies on Hilton Head beaches in the first 18 days of July, putting July 2023 in the running for Hilton Head’s most dangerous summer heat since at least 2018, according to data provided by Shore Beach Services spokesperson Mike Wagner.
Heat emergencies were also at a peak in July 2019, when crews received 79 reports within the month.
Hilton Head beachgoers Wednesday will experience heat that feels like 106 degrees — considered “dangerously high” — and heat indexes are expected to rise to 110 degrees by Friday in Beaufort County, according to data from the NOAA. The heat index measures how hot it really feels outside, accounting for humidity in addition to temperature.
But heat index values are meant to represent “shady locations,” the NOAA says. In unshaded areas — like Beaufort County beaches — numbers can increase by up to 15 degrees.
Excessive heat is insidious and kills more people most years than hurricanes, floods and tornadoes combined, according to the Scientific American.
Beachgoers can take action to reduce their risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke: staying hydrated, lathering on sunscreen and rescheduling outside ventures to the early morning or evening.
HEAT EXHAUSTION VS. HEAT STROKE
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urges people to learn signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Both conditions require that the person move to a cooler place, have cool cloths placed on them or get in a cold bath.
People experiencing heat exhaustion can sip water, but medical help is needed if they’re vomiting, symptoms are worsening or last longer than an hour. A heat stroke victim is a medical emergency that requires a 911 call. The person should not be given anything to drink.
Heat exhaustion:
- Heavy sweating
- Cold, pale and clammy skin
- Fast, weak pulse
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Tiredness or weakness
- Diziness
- Headache
- Fainting
Heat stroke:
- Body temperature of 103 or higher
- Hot, red, dry or damp skin
- Fast, strong pulse
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
This story was originally published July 19, 2023 at 11:56 AM.
