Hot weather is forecast to continue through Friday in the Maple Valley, Covington and Black Diamond region according to The National Weather Service.

A special weather state and fire watch has been issued by the weather service.

Friday’s highs are predicted to reach 92 with overnight lows around 56. Saturday’s high are predicted to be 92 and Sunday about 80

Heat Safety

When the temperature and humidity rises, people’s bodies are not able to cool themselves quickly enough, and they overheat. In severe instances, people can suffer heat stroke, which can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided. Older adults, young children, and people with mental illness and chronic diseases are at highest risk for heat-related illness.

Protect yourself and loved ones from the heat by following these recommendations:

• Spend more time in air conditioned places. If you don’t have air conditioning, consider visiting a mall, movie theater, or other cool public places.
• Dress in lightweight clothing.
• Check up on elderly neighbors and relatives.
• Take a cool shower or bath, or place cool washcloths on your skin.

• Drink plenty of water. Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol, and large amounts of sugar because they can actually dehydrate your body.

If you go outside:

• Limit the time you’re in direct sunlight.
• Do not leave infants, children, people with mobility challenges, or pets in a parked car, even with the window rolled down.
• Do outdoor activities in the cooler early morning and late evening hours.
• Avoid sunburn. Use a sunscreen lotion with a high SPF (sun protection factor) rating.

If you notice someone with signs of overheating, move the person to a cooler location, have them rest for a few minutes, and slowly drink a cool beverage. Seek medical attention for them immediately if they do not feel better.

Heat stroke is a serious condition that requires immediate treatment. Symptoms of heat stroke include:

• an extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
• red, hot, and dry skin
• rapid, strong pulse
• nausea, confusion and unconsciousness

For more tips and resources on staying cool in hot weather, visit www.kingcounty.gov/health/BeatTheHeat.