Extreme Heat and Wildfires in October

 

The U.S. is a mix of disasters. 

The South has been hit by two destructive hurricanes in a few weeks time, Helena and Milton. Milton was called a once in a 1,000 year hurricane. 

Homes have been washed away, and the death toll is over 200, and families are devastated.

In the West, they are continuing with a drought, record high temperatures (close to 100 degrees in October), and continuing wildfires.

There is a wildfire near me, and it's over 20,000 acres and causing evacuations. 

In October.

 Instead of snuggling under a blanket and sipping hot chocolate while we eat apple cider donuts, we are sitting in front of the air conditioner 

What is happening with this crazy weather?

The Dangers of Wildfire Smoke 

According to the CDC, wildfire smoke can cause:

• Coughing and wheezing 
• Trouble breathing
• Asthma attacks
• Stinging eyes, scratchy throat and runny nose 
• Headaches
• Fatigue
  
• Chest pain
• Fast heartbeat

Wildfire smoke doesn't follow city, county, or state lines. So wildfires that are miles (or several states away), can fill your area with smoke. 

Even though it's fall, those in the west with asthma need to take be careful as wildfire smoke can be dangerous and even deadly. Years ago, my son ended up in the ICU thanks to wildfire smoke, and almost died. 

How can you protect yourself?

Check the air quality. 

Enter your zip code on this webpage, and the map will show you what the air quality is like in your area. 

This index lets you know what each color means. 

Stay inside and keep the windows and doors closed.

 I usually go for walks in the morning and evening, but if I can smell the smoke, I turn around and go back in the house. 

Instead, I go to the mall and became.....a Mall Walker. When I worked at a mall in the 80's, I made fun of the old people who were Mall Walkers. And now, here I am....a Mall Walker.  

Evacuation

If you are ordered to evacuate, get out of there! You can't replace a family member, but you can replace stuff. 

How is the weather where you are? Were you affected by the hurricanes and floods? Or are you in a drought and still have hot days and wildfires?