Tulsans Find Creative Ways To Beat The Heat

Emily Baucum, News On 6

TULSA, Oklahoma -- The heat wave sent five people to the hospital Saturday, prompting EMSA to open two cooling centers where people can enjoy the AC.

07/09/2011 Related Story: Excessive Heat Warning Issued For Most Of Green Country

Many families have decided the best way to beat the heat--was to get outside!?!

Summer's not just here with a splash. It cannonballed its way into Green Country.

No matter what you call it, it's hot. The stifling sun's here to stay -- and you can blame it on the rain. Or, the complete lack of rain.

"That's kind of what's fueling the excessive heat at this point," said Robert Darby with the National Weather Service. "It continues to heat up each day and build. The heat builds over time."

Saturday, temperatures all around Oklahoma maxed out at 100 degrees. The National Weather Service says this is the first time such a heat wave has ever been recorded.

"So far Tulsa has seen 9 days above 100 so far this season," Darby said.

Families are flocking to parks, swimming pools -- finding creative ways to cool off.

"Playing in the water a lot," said Kaitana Holmes. "And trying to get really wet so the wind can get on us so we can get really cool."

Now that's looking on the bright side.