Why so much 
?
The Hampton Roads area is a prime location for hot, humid air masses to form because of its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay.
Why?
Waters can warm into the 80s during the summer. The air above the waters warms to similar temperatures. Warm water evaporates into the air, making it very humid. Rising warm, humid air often condenses into clouds, showers or thunderstorms. As the hot, humid air moves inland, the warm ground and pavement heats the air even more. Factor in the amount of pavement and road traffic to the hot air equation in Hampton Roads and our summers can get quite steamy!
ALWAYS heed heat alerts when issued! Heat is the U.S.'s number one weather killer. What can you do?
- Get the poor and elderly into AIR CONDITIONED AREAS for at least several hours a day;
- Do NOT use electric fans, they only create dry breezes which can speed dehydration;
- Don't exercise in hot weather. Degrees of heat related problems and symptoms due to exercising:
- Heat cramps
- are caused by brief imbalances in body salts or a quick drop in blood pressure.
- Heat Exhaustion
- is caused from losing fluids and salts through perspiration. Body temperatures can rise to 102°F. Do NOT take salt tablets without consulting a doctor.
- Heatstroke is
- when the body's temperature rises to 105°F or more. Symptoms are lethargy, confusion, unconsciousness, and even death. Immediate medical attention is needed!