Heat exhaustion risks rise as residents clean up after Tropical Storm Arthur

AVONDALE, La. (WVUE) - Residents clearing debris from Tropical Storm Arthur are facing dangerous heat, with feel-like temperatures nearing 110 degrees.

Bobby Becnel is piling up debris from tornadoes that touched down in Avondale. He is working in what feels like triple digits, alongside neighbors and crews trying to get the lights and air conditioning back on.

To avoid dehydration, Fox 8 Medical Educator Dr. Eric Griggs said to drink water first thing in the morning and regularly when working outside.

“You can really, really exacerbate any heat illnesses or harm from heat if you don’t hydrate first. Take a break and time your outdoor activities,” Griggs said.

Times to avoid, he said, are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the sun is the hottest. And when you are outside, know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

“Heat exhaustion means that your cooling system is starting to fail. You are exhausted. You’re weak. You’re fatigued. You’re tired. You’re exhausted. Heat stroke means that your cooling system has failed and you’ll start to see brain symptoms, slurred speech, possible seizures, being confused,” Griggs said.

Griggs warned heat stroke is a medical emergency that could be life-threatening. Becnel and his neighbors said they will watch out for it until the cleanup is complete.

“I’m drinking water. Body aluminum water. I’m alright,” Becnel said.

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