{"id":13744,"date":"2025-06-20T15:49:11","date_gmt":"2025-06-20T19:49:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/?page_id=13744"},"modified":"2025-06-20T16:22:07","modified_gmt":"2025-06-20T20:22:07","slug":"local-health-officials-offer-tips-to-keep-healthy-and-cool-as-temperatures-climb","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/public-relations-contacts\/archived-news-releases\/2025-news-releases\/local-health-officials-offer-tips-to-keep-healthy-and-cool-as-temperatures-climb\/","title":{"rendered":"Local Health Officials Offer Tips to Keep Healthy and Cool as Temperatures Climb"},"content":{"rendered":"

June 20, 2025
\nMedia Contact: <\/strong>Kathy Lamm, Kathy.lamm@vdh.virginia.gov<\/a>
\n757-236-0529<\/p>\n

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Local Health Officials Offer Tips to Keep Healthy and Cool as Temperatures Climb<\/strong>
\nExtreme Heat Expected to Impact Hampton Roads in the Coming Days<\/em><\/p>\n

NORFOLK, Va. \u2013 As extreme heat moves into the Hampton Roads heat-related illnesses<\/a> are a real concern. Norfolk Department of Public Health offers guidance to stay healthy and cool this summer.<\/p>\n

As temperatures outside rise, it\u2019s important to stay hydrated and stay cool. Last summer, Virginia had more<\/a> than 3,200 heat-related illness visits<\/a> to emergency departments (EDs) and urgent cares statewide and 590 visits for Hampton Roads. Additionally, Virginia EMS clinicians responded to more than 3,600 heat-related illness 911 calls during the heat season (May to September). According to the National Weather Service,<\/a> extreme heat was the leading cause of weather-related deaths in 2024.<\/p>\n

“Our beautiful beaches and waterways offer so much joy, but with extreme heat upon us, it’s crucial to remember that fun in the sun requires smart precautions. Hydrate often, seek shade during peak hours, and never underestimate the power of the sun,” says Dr. Susan Girois, Norfolk Health Director.<\/p>\n

Heat stroke and heat exhaustion<\/a> occur when your body is unable to cool itself. Humidity plays a big factor in your body\u2019s ability to release heat. The higher the humidity, the slower your sweat evaporates. Additionally, age, weight, heart disease, poor circulation, alcohol, sunburn, and prescription drugs play a factor in how quickly your body can cool itself.<\/p>\n

You can beat the heat with these tips:<\/a><\/p>\n