ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) -- As summer approaches, public health and climate experts remind residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses, especially as forecasts point to a warmer-than-average summer.
"We avoided a lot of summer-like heat in May," Corey Davis, North Carolina Assistant State Climatologist, said. Davis said by early June, the heat will be right on time.
"Looking ahead for the rest of the season, it is projected to be above normal temperatures overall," Davis said.
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These predictions come from the Climate Prediction Center, where scientists look at large-scale patterns to determine the outlook for the next few months, along with recent trends.
Davis said one of western North Carolina's large-scale weather patterns is the Bermuda high, which draws hot, humid air from the south.
"In recent years, we've generally run warmer than normal during the summer season," Davis said. Western North Carolina tends to be cooler than the rest of the state, but more extreme heat has been seen in recent years.
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Davis said Asheville averages about 10 to 11 days annually with highs in the 90s, but saw 14 last year. Long-term climate trends show the region is gradually warming.
In addition to rising heat, lingering recovery work from Hurricane Helene means many residents are spending long hours outdoors this summer.
"People are still working on their homes, working on their yards," said Dr. Ellis Matheson, Public Health Director for Buncombe County. "It's going to be really important that people are able to recognize the signs and symptoms and then know what to do if they see them."
Early signs of heat-related illness include heavy sweating and cramps. More serious symptoms like nausea, dizziness, fast pulse, and confusion may signal heat exhaustion or stroke.
Those at highest risk for heat illnesses include adults over 65, young children, pregnant individuals, and people with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or mental illness. Outdoor workers are also vulnerable. "It's important that they have the right education and access that they need to stay cool," Matheson said.
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To help alert the public, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) uses a Heat Health Alert System developed with Duke University's Heat Policy Innovation Hub. In western North Carolina, an alert is issued when the heat index reaches 94F or higher, based on emergency department data and historical trends.
NCDHHS also supports vulnerable residents through Operation Fan Heat Relief, which runs from May 1 to Oct. 31, 2025. The program provides free fans to eligible adults aged 60 and older and individuals with disabilities in partnership with local agencies.
Davis noted that pets can also overheat during hot weather. "Make sure your dogs, your cats, any outdoor pets can go inside and get cool, as well," he said.
Both experts emphasized preparation, hydration, and community awareness.
"Let's all go have a great fun and healthy summer," Matheson said. "We can do that by making sure that we are able to recognize signs of heat illness, know how to respond to them, and that we're checking in on our neighbors and families so that we all can enjoy ourselves this season."