A heat advisory is in effect for the Outer Banks today from noon to 8 p.m. Temperatures will be in the upper 90s, with heat index values up to 108 expected.
The National Weather Service advises people to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible.
To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 911.
A moderate risk of rip currents is also posted Sunday for the south facing beaches from Cape Hatteras to Ocracoke Inlet, including Frisco, Hatteras village and all of Ocracoke Island. Only experienced surf swimmers who know how to escape a rip current should enter the water. Never swim alone, always take a flotation device.
Along the beaches from Corolla to Buxton, there is a low risk of rip currents. But rip currents can still happen in any surf conditions.
They most frequently happen in the hours before and after low tide which is around 1 p.m. today, and are especially prevalent adjacent to piers.
