North Carolina and Great Lakes Region Residents Warned of Heat-Related Illness and Hazardous Air Quality

North Carolina health officials are urging residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses as the state has seen 361 emergency room visits due to heat-related illnesses through mid-June. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has warned of signs of heat-related illness such as fatigue, weakness, fainting, vomiting, and muscle cramps. Cooling assistance is available for those who are eligible.

The Great Lakes region is also facing hazardous air quality due to smoke from Canada’s wildfires. The Environmental Protection Agency’s AirNow.gov site showed Detroit in the “hazardous” range and warned that “everyone should stay indoors and reduce activity levels.” The smoke has spread southward as far as Missouri and Kentucky, and is affecting Chicago, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Ohio, and Pittsburgh, all of which have “very unhealthy” air.

North Carolina health officials are urging residents to stay safe and be aware of the signs of heat-related illness. They are also reminding those who are eligible to take advantage of cooling assistance. Meanwhile, the Great Lakes region is facing hazardous air quality due to smoke from Canada’s wildfires, and the smoke has spread southward as far as Missouri and Kentucky. Residents of affected areas are advised to stay indoors and reduce activity levels.