Global Warming In The News

A report from the National Climatic Data Center has revealed that in 2006, Wichita Falls was ranked second in the Nation for excessive heat. But 2007, hasn't brought much in the way of heat, just lots of rain. Environment Texas says these type of extremes can be expected with continued global warming. But although we're not experiencing excessive heat now, it doesn't mean we should put our guard down for one of summer's greatest dangers, heat exhaustion. And it's no surprise who is at the greatest risk.

Ada Hamberger from the Wichita County Health Department says "An older person doesn't have very much insolation and gets dehydrated really easily because they don't have reserves. Children, they're little and they don't have much in them and can get dehydrated quickly."

But here's the surprising fact, it doesn't have to be as hot as it was in 2006 for heat exhaustion to occur. Although there clearly is a connection between heat and heat exhaution. For exaomple, United Regional Hospital says in 2006 they had 64 recorded cases of heat exhaustion. So far in 2007, that number has only been ten. But the health department says, for those like children it doesn't take a 100-degree day to cause heat exhaustion.

Hamberger adds, "Kids run around and they get hot and sweaty, they get worked up no matter what they're doing and where they're at."

Sweating is all it takes. That's why the Health Department says it's important to keep yourself, your children, and the elderly hydrated. Although 2007 probably won't rank on top for excessive heat, it's still important for you and those you care about to remain hydrated.