Heat Wave Returns to Lakes Area

DETROIT LAKES (KDLM) – Another excruciating heat wave has hit the Lakes Area with temperatures that could hit the triple digits.

Health experts are warning residents that the sustained heat can be dangerous. Residents and vacationers are encouraged to watch out for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

High body temperature (above 103 degrees); red, hot, dry skin (no sweating); rapid, strong pulse; throbbing headache; dizziness; upset stomach; confusion; and passing out are often signs of heat stroke.

Essentia Health says any of these warning signs should prompt you to seek immediate medical attention.

“It’s important in these summer months to make sure you are not spending prolonged periods of time in direct sunlight. Be sure to drink plenty of water and pay attention to any warning signs of heat related illness,” said Jaclyn Hughley, a nurse practitioner at Essentia. “Heatstroke can kill or cause damage to the brain and other internal organs. While it mainly affects people over the age of 50, it can often impact young people as well.”

From 2004-2018, there were an average of 702 heat-related deaths in the United States annually, according to a CDC report.