Nashville OEM Continues Heat Patrols into July 4th Weekend

The Nashville Office of Emergency Management (OEM) urges everyone to stay weather aware as extreme weather continues through the July 4th Weekend.

OEM will activate a unified command at the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) as it does during major special events.

The Nashville Office of the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for Metro Nashville Davidson County.

NWS forecast afternoon high temperatures will approach triple digits this week with heat indices near 110°F in some areas. An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect through Friday for portions of middle Tennessee. Take the necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

According to NWS, feel-like temperatures will approach or exceed 105 degrees Thursday afternoon.

Severe thunderstorms are possible Thursday afternoon and evening. Greatest threats are damaging winds, small hail, lightning, and heavy rain.

NWS has the area under a 2 out 5 slight risks. A slight risk is defined as a means scattered severe thunderstorms are expected to occur, bringing the potential for strong wind gusts, large hail, and occasionally a brief tornado.

OEM Personnel started conducting Heat Patrols on Sunday and have continued throughout the week.

Heat Patrol Results

June 28

• Distributed 108 water bottles

June 29

• Distributed 153 water bottles
• Distributed 7 hygiene kits
• Distributed 12 snack/meal kits

June 30

• Distributed 214 water bottles
• Distributed 3 hygiene kits
• Distributed 1 snack/meal kit
• Provided 13 cases of water (455 bottles) to East PD

July 1

• 118 water bottles distributed

OEM Teams will continue to conduct heat patrols on Thursday and Friday. Additional heat patrols will be added based on weather conditions.

These dedicated volunteers will be visiting areas where vulnerable populations tend to gather, offering cold water, towels, and additional resources to help individuals escape the scorching temperatures.

OEM recommends taking several steps to stay safe during this extreme weather. First and foremost, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you must be outside, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the sun.

Be sure you know how to recognize the signs of heat illness. Symptoms can include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, it is vital to move to a cooler place, hydrate, and seek medical attention if necessary.

A critical reminder is to never leave children or pets in parked cars, even for a short period.

The temperature inside a vehicle can rise quickly, leading to life-threatening situations. Always check your back seat before leaving your vehicle to ensure that no one is left behind.

Additionally, OEM encourages residents to check on the elderly and vulnerable members of the community. Those who are elderly, have chronic illnesses, or lack access to air conditioning are at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses. A simple phone call or visit can make a significant difference in their well-being during this extreme heat.

As we brace for these hot days ahead, let us all take the necessary precautions to ensure our safety and the safety of those around us. Stay informed, stay cool, and look out for one another.

For Pets

• Ensure pets have constant access to water, especially during hot weather. Adding ice to the water can help keep it cool.
• Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day (typically 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.). opt for walks in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
• Make sure pets have access to shaded areas when outdoors. A well-ventilated doghouse or a shady spot under a tree can provide relief from the sun.
• Hot pavement can burn paws, so test the surface with your hand before letting your pet walk on it. Consider using pet booties or walking on the grass instead.
• Temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly, even with the windows cracked, and lead to heatstroke.
• Excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and unsteady gait are signs of heatstroke. If you notice these symptoms, move your pet to a cooler area and contact your veterinarian immediately.

For Children

• Stay hydrated: Encourage children to drink plenty of water, even before they feel thirsty.
• Dress lightly: Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing can help children stay cool.
• Seek shade and avoid peak heat: Limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day and seek shade when outdoors.
• Supervise children around water: Ensure children are supervised when near pools, lakes, or other bodies of water.
• Never leave children unattended in vehicles: Like pets, children can quickly overheat in parked cars.
• Be aware of heat exhaustion and heatstroke: Signs of heat exhaustion in children include flushed skin, headache, dizziness, and nausea. Heatstroke can be more severe and requires immediate medical attention.