Hot weather can be dangerous. Learn easy ways to stay cool, spot the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and know when to get medical help during a Cleveland heat wave.
Published June 30, 2026
Contributed by: Jeremiah Escajeda, MD / Emergency Medicine
Stay Safe During Extreme Heat
A heat wave is bringing very hot temperatures to Northeast Ohio. Hot weather can be dangerous and may lead to serious health problems. Older adults, young children, and people with ongoing health conditions are at higher risk. However, heat-related illness can affect anyone, including healthy people who spend a lot of time outdoors or exercise in the heat.
“One of the reasons heat waves are particularly dangerous in Cleveland is that our bodies simply aren’t acclimated,” says Jeremiah Escajeda, MD, an emergency medicine doctor at MetroHealth.
“It takes about 7–14 days of repeated heat exposure for the cardiovascular system and sweating mechanisms to adapt. When temperatures rise suddenly, we often see more heat-related illness during those first several days.”
What Are Heat-Related Illnesses?
Who Is at Higher Risk?
You may be more likely to develop a heat-related illness if you:
- Do not drink enough water
- Have heart disease or poor circulation
- Take certain prescription medicines
- Have a sunburn
- * Drink alcohol
- Are overweight or obese
“Thirst is a late sign. During prolonged heat exposure, don’t wait until you’re thirsty; drink fluids throughout the day,” advises Dr. Escajeda .
How to Stay Safe in Hot Weather
- Avoid outdoor activities between noon and 4 p.m., when temperatures are usually highest.
- Stay in an air-conditioned space when possible.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Take breaks often if you must be outside.
- Rest in the shade whenever possible.
- Check on older adults, neighbors, and anyone who may not have air conditioning.
- Never leave children or pets alone in a car.
“The single most effective protection against extreme heat is access to air conditioning. Please look out for your neighbors who may not have air conditioning, particularly vulnerable neighbors such as the elderly,” says Dr. Escajeda.
Signs of Heat Exhaustion
Watch for these symptoms:
- Heavy sweating
- Dizziness
- Muscle cramps
- Weakness or tiredness
- Fainting
- Nausea
- Headache
If symptoms get worse, last longer than one hour, or the person starts vomiting, seek medical care right away.
Signs of Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Symptoms may include:
- Confusion
- Sleepiness
- Severe headache
- Hot, red skin that may be damp or dry
- Nausea
- Fast heartbeat
- Fainting
- Loss of consciousness
- Body temperature of 103°F or higher
What to Do If Someone Has Heat Stroke
- Call 911 immediately.
- Move the person to a cooler place or into the shade.
- Use cool, wet cloths or a cool bath to help lower their body temperature.
- Wait for emergency medical help to arrive.
Heat stroke can be life-threatening, so do not delay getting emergency care.
For more information about preventing, recognizing, and treating heat-related illnesses, visit the CDC’s extreme heat resources.
Your Questions Answered
Q. How much water should I drink when it’s hot outside?
A. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but most people should drink water regularly throughout the day and not wait until they feel thirsty. If you’re spending time outdoors, exercising, or sweating a lot, you may need more fluids.
Q. What is the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke?
A. Heat exhaustion is a serious heat-related illness that can cause heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, weakness, and headaches. Heat stroke is a medical emergency that can cause confusion, loss of consciousness, and a body temperature of 103°F or higher. Call 911 right away if you think someone has heat stroke.
Q. Are children and older adults more vulnerable to extreme heat?
A. Yes. Young children and older adults have a harder time regulating body temperature, which puts them at greater risk for heat-related illnesses. Check on older family members, friends, and neighbors during periods of extreme heat, and never leave children or pets in a parked car.
