Hot temperatures expected, how to protect yourself
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) — Western Colorado is a dry desert climate, meaning summer months can be very hot.
WesternSlopeNow talked with several people about the temperature and what they do to protect themselves from the sun.
“I apply sunscreen to my exposed parts,” said Coleman Morris-Goodrick, a mountain biker WesternSlopeNow caught up with at the Lunch Loop Trailhead.
“Anything that’s going to be exposed I cover with sunscreen and then I like to wear the long sleeve shirt, cause I feel more comfortable with that than lathering up completely with sunscreen.”
Temperatures have been climbing and according to WesternSlopeNow Meteorologist Barrett Vinson the peak is yet to come.
“Last week and this week, temperatures are well above those seasonal averages. Which not only raises concerns for that gradual warming trend that we look for, but also seeing temperatures above average this early into the summer months could mean different things. It could mean that we’re warming up quicker, which could lead to even warmer temperatures later in the season. So, we’ll start hitting those record highs before we would anticipate for them. Maybe in mid to late June rather than July which is usually the hottest month of the year that we see.”
The National Weather Service branch here in Grand Junction has been keeping track of temperature trends, showing that over the past few years, temperatures have sat in the mid-80s to low 90s with a temperature peak expected later this year.
Mesa County Epidemiologist Will Raush says that with the hot temperatures, you need to stay hydrated.
“One thing we like to get the word out about is that if you are already thirsty it actually means that you are already becoming dehydrated. So, it’s best to be drinking water even if you are not actively feeling thirsty when you’re outside recreating.”
One thing our body loses when we exercise is electrolytes. Raush says it’s important to replenish those too.
“As you sweat, you’re losing electrolytes and so it’s very important to replenish those electrolytes as you sweat.”
Another thing to keep in mind is maintaining a cool home. Cold air sinks so stay on the lower floors. Don’t use the oven because that could heat up the home.
Lastly, if you are struggling to maintain a cool home, go to an area with air conditioning like the public library.
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