By G Bruce Grayson | EIVisuals.com
August 15th, 2020
@ei_visuals_com
The numbers are in, and it's official. This has been the hottest July, for the Northeast US, on record in last 125 years, according to: "Rutgers NJ Weather Network". https://www.njweather.org/content/record-heat-july-2020-recap Ever since 1895, when recording temperatures commenced, the New Jersey average temperature has been 78.8* degrees. This passes the previous record by 0.4* degrees held for; 1955, 1999, & 2011. (See Table A below) Okay, so it's hot. "Soooo" what can you do?
In these conditions, excessive sweating combined with high temps, the risk is higher for heat related illnesses. Beware of these warning signs: Dizziness, muscle spasms, cramps, are all symptoms that should be an alert that something is wrong and can be the precursor to more severe illnesses such as; Heat Cramps; Heat Exhaustion; and the most severe, Heat Stroke.
The most common steps for prevention are:
1. Stay hydrated and have access to plenty of water,
2. Cooling stations, if available, to keep the entire body cool,
3. No sugar / energy based fluids or milk and dairy based products,
4. Light covering on your head to protect you from UV exposure,
5. And if you've been getting ready for the 2020 fall sports season, more schools adopt the approach to avoid exposure by starting their activities just before the sun starts to go down. If schools have stadium lighting, they can practice after the sun goes down.
- The advantages are:
1. Temperature and humidity will be significantly reduced,
2. There is still plenty of light outside or night lighting, for a full practice session,
3. And, without the scorching temps and stifling humidity, players and participants can concentrate more on learning their positions and assignments.
Table A: The 10 warmest Julys across NJ since 1895
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Rank | Year | July Avg. Temp(F*)
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1 | 2020 | 78.8
2 | 2011 | 78.4
3 | 1999 | 78.4
4 | 1955 | 78.4
5 | 2010 | 78.3
6 | 2019 | 78.0
7 | 2013 | 77.8
8 | 2012 | 77.8
9 | 2016 | 77.2
10 | 1949 | 77.0
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Temperature record source: ( Dave Robinson - Rutgers NJ Weather Network, Aug 8th, 2020 )