Heat Alert Extended Through Monday

NewsOn6.com

TULSA, OK -- As of Sunday evening, EMSA paramedics have treated nine people throughout the day for a suspected heat-related illness. People treated for heat-related illness Sunday include four people waiting in line to see a mobile museum exhibit at Woodland Hills Mall, according to Tina Wells, EMSA spokesperson.

"Ironically, four of the other patients EMSA treated for heat-related illness on Sunday fell ill while standing in line to see the Titanic exhibit - about an ocean-liner that crashed in frigid waters," Wells said in a press update.

Another person treated Sunday included one man, believed to be homeless, who was in serious condition.

The heat alert has been extended through Monday. It's Tulsa's tenth EMSA Heat Alert of 2009.

Don't expect the high temperatures to change anytime soon, News On 6 meteorologist Dick Faurot warns Sunday. Triple digits will be common again, especially west and southwest of Tulsa.

Heat index values during the heat of the day should be in the 105-110 degree range Sunday and Monday.

"Right now I am thinking that Tuesday will be the hottest day of this particular heat wave," Faurot said.

Spending too much time in the heat is landing people in the back of ambulances, Wells said. 

By 7:15 p.m. Saturday, EMSA paramedics had treated eight patients Saturday with signs of heat-related illness. On Friday, they treated four people for heat-related problems. All had spent time outdoors - participating in physical activities, gardening or attending community events - before falling ill. None of the patients suffered life-threatening injuries.

The overnight low on Saturday set a record high - at 83 degrees, the hottest early morning temperature on record for this time of year.

Read Dick Faurot's Weather Discussion

The extreme heat puts Tulsa under an excessive heat warning that will continue through Tuesday. The city is also under an Ozone Alert - a good reason for putting off mowing the lawn or doing other yardwork that involves gasoline.

Related Story 7/10/2009: How To Prepare For Triple Digit Temps

During Ozone Alert days, the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality warns that persons with lung or heart disease should be aware that increased pollution may cause them to experience adverse health effects. Symptoms include chest pain, coughing, sneezing, nausea, headache and pulmonary congestion.

City officials say Tulsa motorists can help by carpooling, taking the bus, or waiting to fuel their vehicles after sundown. In addition, children, adults and especially people with respiratory disease such as asthma should limit prolonged outdoor activities.