Tips to stay cool amid near-record heat expected Friday, this weekend

Near-record heat is expected Friday, to kick off a hot weekend.

Chief Meteorologist Ken Barlow says temperatures Friday are expected to be in the mid-90s. The record high temperature for June 4 was set in 1968 at 96 degrees.

Barlow said both Saturday and Sunday will be hot, humid and windy as well. Barlow said the record high temperatures for June 5 was set in 1925 and he said the state should easily break that record.

By Sunday evening, a few thunderstorms are expected and it might be even more humid than Saturday. However, Barlow said most of the weekend will be rain-free.

Meanwhile, Barlow said Thursday was the first day of this year the state hit 90 degrees.

During hot weather, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) suggests drinking plenty of water and eating cool, easy-to-digest foods such as fruit or salads. NOAA also suggests taking a cool bath or shower and using air conditioners or spending time in air-conditioned locations.

Given the hot weather expected this week, Xcel Energy shared a handful of tips on how to keep homes cool:

• Install a programmable thermostat that raises the setting when the house is empty, and lowers it to a comfortable level when everyone arrives at home
• Use ceiling fans to help circulate cool air through the home
• Open interior doors to improve the circulation of cool air inside
• Use a whole-house or attic fan to draw in cool nighttime air and push out hot air during the day
• Change air conditioning filters
• Close drapes and blinds during the heat of the day

Those who must go out during excessive heat events should dress in lightweight, loose clothing that reflects heat and sunlight, NOAA states. Drink plenty of water and minimize exposure to the sun. Do not leave valuable electronic equipment, such as cellphones and GPS units, in hot vehicles. Children, seniors and anyone with underlying health conditions should stay in the coolest places available to them.

Additionally, it’s important to keep an eye on pets during hot weather.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA) recommends pet owners avoid exercising pets during the hottest parts of the day. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) also suggests limiting the time pets spend on hot asphalt, as that can burn paw pads.

Just as hydration is key for humans on hot days, the AMVA, ASPCA and American Humane all stress the importance of providing ample water for pets.

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