National Weather Service issues heat advisory due to scorching Pensacola heat index

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6 days ago

What does this week's weather forecast look like? Hot.
The Florida Panhandle is under a heat advisory until 7 p.m. on Monday as heat index values are expected to reach up to a whopping 108 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.
In the Pensacola area, the high will reach near 93 degrees, with the heat index hitting 106 degrees. The NWS says temperatures will be hotter closer to the coast.
Temperatures will remain high through at least Tuesday in Pensacola, which will likely see another heat advisory as the heat index is forecast to reach 106 degrees again.
The NWS highly recommends drinking plenty of fluids, staying in an air-conditioned room and staying out of the sun if you have to be outside.
Wednesday will see the start of several storms associated with a low-pressure area that AccuWeather says could develop into another tropical rainstorm.
The risk of tropical development is currently low, but it will ultimately depend on how far away the center of the disturbance remains offshore as it travels westward throughout the week.
The more time the system's center spends offshore, the more time it has to strengthen, according to AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva.
"If the center is able to stay offshore long enough, it will increase its chances for tropical development. However, if the center hugs the coast, it will struggle to strengthen."
"Another factor will be stiff, disruptive breezes (wind shear), which will also tend to push the storm steadily and swiftly to the west," DaSilva explained.
Triple-digit temps triggers heat advisory in Florida Panhandle
The National Weather Service office in Mobile, Alabama, issued a heat advisory in Escambia, Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday.
Heat index values are forecast to reach as high as 109℉ in portions of south central and southwest Alabama, northwest Florida and southeast Mississippi.
The sweltering heat will stick around through Tuesday, which will likely trigger another heat advisory.
Pensacola heat index: 106℉
Milton heat index: 109℉
Fort Walton heat index: 107℉
What is a heat advisory? What to know about heat alerts
The National Weather Service uses a three-tiered heat alert system. Not all local offices use every heat-related product due to some places being more prepared to deal with intense heat than others.
Here's a general rundown of what each heat alert means:
Extreme Heat Warning — Take Action! An extreme heat warning is issued when extremely dangerous heat conditions are expected or occurring. Avoid outdoor activities, especially during the heat of the day. If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. Stay indoors in an air-conditioned space as much as possible, including overnight. Check on family and neighbors.
Extreme Heat Watch — Be Prepared! An extreme heat watch is issued when conditions are favorable for an extreme heat event but its occurrence and timing is still uncertain. Plan to suspend all major outdoor activities if a warning is issued. If you do not have air conditioning, locate the nearest cooling shelter or discuss staying with nearby family or friends who have air conditioning.
Heat Advisory — Take Action! A heat advisory is issued for dangerous heat conditions that are not expected to reach warning criteria. Consider postponing or rescheduling outdoor activities, especially during the heat of the day. If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. Stay in a cool place, especially during the heat of the day and evening.
Heat index alert: Weather watches and warnings issued in Florida
This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Heat advisory triggered in Florida Panhandle as heat index reaches 106
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