Extreme heat events are becoming increasingly common. Central Florida is currently under a Heat Advisory for Friday, July 30, 2025.
Residents of multiple counties—including Inland Flagler County, Coastal Flagler County, Seminole County, Inland and Coastal Volusia County, Osceola County, Southern and Northern Lake County, and Orange County—are advised to take proactive measures. The advisory lasts from mid-morning to early evening.
With the risks of heat-related illnesses and lightning heightened, local emergency medicine physician Dr. Omayra Mansfield has provided essential safety tips. These tips help residents stay healthy and prepared during this challenging weather event.
What Happens During a Heat Advisory?
A Heat Advisory generally signifies that temperatures are dangerously high and could pose significant health risks, especially to vulnerable populations. In Central Florida, Friday’s advisory spans between 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM EDT.
This marks a critical time period for outdoor safety vigilance. Temperatures often exceed normal seasonal levels, and high humidity exacerbates heat-related discomfort and risks.
Who Is Most at Risk?
While excessive heat can affect everyone, certain individuals face a higher level of risk. Vulnerable populations include the elderly, young children, and individuals with chronic illnesses.
Pets are also at elevated risk during extreme heat conditions, particularly if left in vehicles or outdoors. Checking on neighbors, family, and community members in these categories is vital during a heat advisory.
Key Safety Tips from Dr. Mansfield
Dr. Omayra Mansfield, an emergency medicine physician at AdventHealth, shared practical strategies for protecting yourself and others during periods of extreme heat and lightning risks. Her advice focuses on hydration, clothing, activity modification, and the importance of indoor environments.
Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water: Staying adequately hydrated is crucial, especially during peak heat hours.
- Avoid caffeinated drinks: Beverages like coffee and soda can exacerbate dehydration.
Adjust Your Outdoor Activities
Engaging in strenuous outdoor activities during the advisory period can significantly increase susceptibility to heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Dr. Mansfield advises avoiding activities like yard work, running, or sports between 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM EDT.
If outdoor work is unavoidable, try to schedule it for early morning or late evening.
Seek Air-Conditioned Environments
Whenever possible, spend time in air-conditioned spaces, such as homes, libraries, or community cooling centers. Extended exposure to the heat can increase the risk of developing life-threatening conditions.
Staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day is a practical safety step.
The Role of Clothing in Heat Mitigation
Proper clothing can make a dramatic impact on how well your body copes with high temperatures. Dr. Mansfield recommends wearing lightweight and light-colored fabrics that reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it.
Fabrics designed to wick moisture away from your skin can add an extra layer of comfort and heat protection.
Watch Out for Cars
One of the most critical warnings from Dr. Mansfield involves the dangers of leaving children or pets in vehicles, even for a few minutes. Cars can rapidly become “heat traps” under the intense Florida sun, leading to fatal heatstroke.
Looking Out for Each Other
Checking on elderly neighbors, ensuring young children remain indoors, and keeping pets safe all contribute to preventing tragedies during extreme weather events. Simple acts of vigilance could save lives.
A Final Note on Lightning
While the advisory primarily concerns heat, lightning remains a secondary weather danger during Florida summers.
Residents are encouraged to stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid open areas to mitigate risks.
Heat advisories, such as the one affecting Central Florida this July, are a call for attention and preparedness.
By following expert recommendations from professionals like Dr. Omayra Mansfield, residents can stay safe amidst rising temperatures.
Here is the source article for this story: Dealing with extreme weather: Heat stroke & lightning