Thursday was the 13th consecutive day of 90-plus degree weather in York County - 98 degrees to be precise - and forecasters don't expect it to cool off much this weekend.
More highs in the mid-90s are in store today, with the scorching weather expected again Saturday, Sunday and into next week, according to the National Weather Service. In fact, the first day of sub-90 temperatures isn't expected until Wednesday, the weather service predicts.
This level of heat is unusual for June, meteorologist Chris Horne said. Wednesday's and Thursday's high of 98 was just 1 degree short of the record for June.
Hot temperatures have been caused by the early appearance of a subtropical high pressure ridge, Horne said, which keeps the atmosphere suppressed and allows warm air from tropical areas to the south to move in.
Despite the chance of thunderstorms every day through Monday, not much relief is expected.
Because the severe heat can lead to health problems and other concerns, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Know the dangers
The most common heat-related conditions and how to recognize and treat them are:
Heat cramps: Muscle pains or spasms in the abdomen, arms or legs.
Stop activity and rest in a cool place.
Drink plenty of fluid, possibly sports drinks.
Stretch before activities.
Call a doctor if the cramps continue for more than an hour or if they come back with further exertion.
Heat exhaustion: Develops after spending a long period of time in the heat and not drinking enough fluids. Symptoms include muscle cramps, heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, fainting, headache, nausea or vomiting and pale skin color. If left untreated, heat exhaustion may turn into heat stroke.
Stop what you're doing immediately and cool off.
Go to or take the person to a cool place, such as a shady area or air-conditioned room.
Place cool cloths on the skin.
Drink a cool, non-alcoholic beverage.
Take off any non-essential clothing or equipment.
Seek medical help if the symptoms are severe or if the person has high blood pressure or a heart condition.
Heat stroke: The most severe is a total failure of the body's cooling system. Body temperature rises rapidly, the sweating system fails, and the body cannot cool itself down. Symptoms include nausea; dizziness; throbbing headache; muscle twitching; irritability, confusion, emotional instability or aggressiveness; high body temperature (more than 103 degrees); red, hot and dry skin (no sweating); hallucinations; quick, strong pulse; and unconsciousness.
Call for medical help immediately. While you wait, take the person to a cool place, such as a shady area or air-conditioned room.
Have the person lie down and slightly elevate their feet.
Place the person in a cool bath or shower, or spray or sponge them with cool water.
Wrap the person in a cool, damp towel or sheet and fan them vigorously.
Apply ice packs to the armpits and groin.
Give the person a cool, nonalcoholic drink.
Take care of yourself
Here are ways to help prevent heat-related illnesses for yourself and others:
Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid very cold beverages and alcohol.
Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. A wide-brimmed hat will help provide shade and keep your head cool.
Plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late evening.
Keep an eye on those at greater risk for heat-related illness: infants and children up to 4 years old; people 65 and older; those who are overweight; people who are sick or who are on certain medications.
Use common sense. Don't eat hot or heavy meals. Don't leave infants or pets in parked cars. Limit your exposure to the sun during midday hours.
Give your pets plenty of water. Make sure infants and children are dressed appropriately and see that they also have plenty to drink.
Need help?
A number of local agencies offer help to those without air conditioning or who have health issues that can be made worse by the heat. Agencies that offer assistance include:
American Red Cross
Refers those in need to appropriate agencies
803-329-6575
Clover Area Assistance Center
Assists with utility bills and cooling needs
803-222-4837
People Attempting To Help (PATH)
Assists with utility bills and other costs
803-684-3992
Carolina Community Action's Emergency Cooling Program
Assists with utility bills
Gives additional help to people with medical needs, such as high blood pressure, heart problems or breathing difficulties
People can apply for air conditioning units and/or fans
803-329-5195
Fort Mill Care Center
Assists with utility bills
803-547-7620
Pilgrims' Inn
Provides donated fans and air-conditioners when available
Provides a waiting room where non-perishable food is available and people can stay out of the heat
803-327-4227; in case of emergency, 803-327-3430
Salvation Army
Assists with utility bills
Helps locate places to go, including shelters, transitional housing or a family member's home
803-324-5141
