Excessive heat combined with smoke from wildfires in Canada leading to poor air conditions.

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH - The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for Cuyahoga County and several other Northeast Ohio counties beginning today at 12 p.m. through 8 p.m. In addition, an Air Quality Alert is in effect through midnight tonight.

High temperatures and poor air quality have a more drastic effect on people in vulnerable populations including the elderly, children, and those with preexisting medical conditions.

The forecast estimates temperatures will reach the 90’s, however a heat index in the 105-degree range is expected. Extreme heat can be very dangerous and can cause heat-related illnesses including heat stroke, exhaustion, cramps, and dehydration.

Cuyahoga County’s air is being impacted by wildfire smoke from Canada. Wildfire smoke combined with high temperatures leads to poorer air. Poor air quality can impact people with asthma, heart disease or other respiratory conditions.

Use these helpful tips to stay safe:

• Know the signs of heat related illness. Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache are not to be taken lightly. They can be symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, it's imperative to move to a cooler place, drink water, and seek medical attention, if necessary.
• If you are sensitive to poorer air quality, stay inside and in an air-conditioned area if possible
• NEVER leave children or pets in a vehicle in the heat. Temperatures within a vehicle can rise quickly and become deadly.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty.
• Dress for summer. Wear lightweight, loose fitting, light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight.
• Slow down. Reduce, eliminate, or reschedule strenuous activities until the coolest time of the day.
• Minimize direct exposure to the sun. Sunburn reduces your body's ability to dissipate heat.
• Check your city's website for locations of cooling centers.
• The Division of Senior and Adult Services maintains a map of agencies and resources to assist older adults.

To help improve the air we breathe:

• Limit unnecessary car trips
• Avoid idling vehicles during high heat
• Wait to mow or use an electric mower

Find tips for managing extreme heat.

Be sure to stay up to date on all vital information by signing up for Cuyahoga County's emergency notification system, READY NOTIFY, today!