Stay indoors, stay cool, stay safe: Excessive heat warning in effect for Prairie Village area until next Friday

The National Weather Service has extended its heat advisory for the area until next Friday, July 22.

Today’s predicted high temperature of 95 degrees is the lowest for the week, with heat index values expected to peak near 115 degree in the coming days. Even at night, the heat indices aren’t expected to fall below the mid-80s.

The Johnson County Health Department is encouraging anyone needing relief from the heat to visit local libraries, which have been designated as official cooling centers. The Corinth Library is open until 5 p.m. today, and then from 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Hours Monday through Thursday are 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

The county also offers the following tips to prevent serious health problems:

• Drink more fluids (non-alcoholic), regardless of your activity level. Check with your doctor if you have restrictions related to fluid intake.
• Stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go somewhere cool—even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.
• Electric fans may provide comfort, but when temperatures are in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• If you must be out in the heat, limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
• Exercise in an air-conditioned place and drink two to four glasses of cool, non-alcoholic fluids each hour. A sports drink can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat.
• If you have to be outside, try to rest often in shady areas.
• Protect yourself from the sun by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.