Heat advisory issued for much of Colorado on Monday
The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for Fort Collins and much of Colorado ahead of Monday’s triple-digit temperature forecast.
The Monday advisory is in effect from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and includes much of the urban corridor, plains of east-central and northeastern Colorado, with some areas expected to reach 105 degrees, according to the alert.
Here’s what to know when preparing for the heat.
What will the weather be in Fort Collins on Monday?
The high forecast for Fort Collins for Monday is 101 degrees, according to the weather service. There’s a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Monday, potentially bringing gusty winds on top of sweltering temperatures.
Starting Sunday, temperatures are expected to drop to a not-so-cool high of 97 degrees on Tuesday and stay in the high 90s for the rest of the week (with a few days in the 90s). Low temperatures are expected to be in the 60s this week.
We asked the experts:Can Colorado’s extreme weather be attributed to climate change?
What does a heat advisory mean?
The weather service warns you of high temperatures and the dangers they can represent. In a tweet about Monday’s expected record heat and advisorythe weather service shared information on heat exhaustion and heatstroke:
Heat Exhaustion Symptoms:
- Dizziness
- The thirst
- Profuse sweating
- Nausea
- Weakness
These actions are recommended for someone showing signs of heat exhaustion:
- Move to a cooler place
- loosen clothes
- Sip cold water
- Consult a doctor if symptoms do not improve
Heat Stroke Symptomswhich can follow heat exhaustion and can lead to death or permanent disability if left untreated:
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Become unconscious
If anyone has symptoms of heatstrokecall 911 and move them to a cooler area, loosen clothing and remove extra layers, and use ice or water to cool them, according to information shared by the weather service.
What steps can I take to protect people and pets when it’s so hot?
In short? The weather service recommends that you “stay hydrated, seek shade if you’re outdoors, and don’t forget your sunscreen!”
Here are some additional tips to keep your little ones, your pets and yourself safe in hot weather:
- It is never safe to leave a small child, disabled person or pet locked in a parked vehicle. Leaving the windows slightly open does not significantly decrease the heating rate.
- If you have a toddler in your household, lock your cars, even in your own driveway.
- Be sure to give pets plenty of fresh, clean water and a shaded area to protect themselves from the sun.
- If your pet shows signs of overheating, hydrate and cool it down as quickly as possible. Remember that dogs don’t sweat and instead rely on panting to stay cool. Symptoms of overheating in pets include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart rate and breathing, drooling, mild weakness, stupor, or even collapse.
Source: National Weather Service tips compiled by The Coloradoan
Weekend coverage:Deadly Larimer County flood caused by 20-minute downpour over burn scar