Why We Report on the Heat Index
Understanding the Heat Index
A question we receive quite often at NBC6 is why we report on the heat index as much as, or even more than, we report on the temperature. The heat index, also called the apparent temperature or feels-like temperature, is the temperature our body thinks it is when we have high humidity.
The Science Behind the Heat Index
Our bodies have to work harder to keep cool during very humid days. When it is hot and dry outside, we can sweat without ever feeling any sweat. That’s because as quickly as the sweat condenses onto our skin, it evaporates. This keeps us cool because evaporation is a cooling process.
When it’s humid out, we sweat a lot in Florida. The sweat is condensing onto our skin more quickly than it is evaporating because the air is saturated with humidity. This means we have to work harder to stay cool, and the actual temperature becomes insignificant. It is the humidity that gives us the feels-like temperature, a number that tells us if we are in danger.
The Connection to Climate Change
As far as climate change, there is actually a connection. For every 1 degree rise in the temperature, there is a 4% rise in available moisture. This means more rain, but also more humidity and a higher heat index. That’s why we have had so many heat advisories this summer. Those alerts are based on the heat index, not the actual temperature.
The Importance of the Heat Index
Just think, if there were no humidity, we could open the windows at night in the middle of the summer if it were 80 degrees. But we usually can’t, because the humidity makes it feel much warmer. The heat index is a more accurate reflection of how hot it feels outside, rather than just the actual temperature.
Conclusion
Reporting on the heat index is crucial in understanding the real-world impact of climate change. By understanding the heat index, we can better prepare for extreme weather conditions and take necessary precautions to stay safe. The next time you hear us reporting on the heat index, remember that it’s not just a number – it’s a vital part of staying informed and staying safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do you report on the heat index more than the temperature?
A: We report on the heat index more than the temperature because it gives us a more accurate reflection of how hot it actually feels outside, taking into account the humidity and its impact on our bodies.
Q: What is the difference between the heat index and the actual temperature?
A: The heat index takes into account the humidity, which can make the air feel much warmer or cooler than the actual temperature. For example, a temperature of 80 degrees with low humidity may feel normal, but a temperature of 80 degrees with high humidity may feel much hotter.
Q: Is the heat index only related to summer weather?
A: No, the heat index can be related to any weather condition where there is high humidity, not just summer weather. For example, areas where there is high humidity and cold temperatures, such as the wind chill, also experience similar effects.
