Staff report

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for companies or individuals working outdoors Friday (today).

The Heat Advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. Friday night for the following counties: Cumberland, Harnett, Johnston, Sampson and Wayne counties, which includes the cities of Fayetteville, Smithfield, Selma, Clayton, Lillington, Angier, Buies Creek, Erwin, Dunn, Goldsboro, Spring Lake, Hope Mills, Clinton, and Roseboro.

According to the National Weather Service anyone working outdoors can expect maximum heat index values around 105 degrees.

“Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors,” the NWS warning stated earlier on Friday. “Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.”

Forecasters said anyone working outside should take extra precautions by rescheduling strenuous work to early morning or evening hours when possible. 

“Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” the statement said. “Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, According to NWS forecasters in Raleigh, The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. 

“Heat stroke is an emergency. Call 9-1-1,” the statement said. “Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.”

Severe Thunderstorms 

Additionally, forecasters said strong, locally damaging wind gusts will be possible in scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms on Saturday through Thursday.

“Thunderstorms late Saturday night and Sunday may become severe,” according to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued Friday morning.