KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — According to the National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center, a record-breaking heat will shift toward the Eastern U.S. by next week. They said there will be multiple days of major to extreme heat risk for several major cities. This heat will affect anyone without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration.
Due to this, the Knoxville-Knox County Emergency Management is asking everyone to find shelter and stay safe.
To avoid heat-related illness, be sure to take frequent breaks, wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities to cooler times of the day, like morning or evening.
Although most mild heat-related illnesses are treatable with shelter from the sun and adequate hydration, if left untreated, heat-related illnesses can be very serious and could result in death, according to officials.
Seek medical help if you experience a heat-related emergency.
In addition to taking care of your household, it is also a great time to check on your neighbors to make sure they also have a way to take shelter from the heat.
There are public places that offer air-conditioning and shelter from the sun. These include libraries and senior centers. Public pools and splash pads may also provide relief from the heat.
Knoxville-Knox County EM said people who have lost utility services or live in a house or apartment without air-conditioning, may also be at risk during heat waves. CAC can be reached at (865) 546-3500 and offers utility assistance as well as access to fans for seniors.
Anyone needing help connecting with additional social services providers should call 211.
For more resources, you can visit the CDC website here.