As the United States swelters in a heat wave that is expected to last through the weekend, new data released Wednesday shows that the country is on track for its hottest year on record.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the average temperature in the contiguous U.S. so far this year is 71.8 degrees Fahrenheit (22.1 degrees Celsius). That is 3.3 degrees Fahrenheit (1.8 degrees Celsius) above the 20th-century average, and 1.4 degrees Fahrenheit (0.8 degree Celsius) above the previous record set in 2012.
When the weather outside is hot and humid, the inside of your car can quickly become an oven. This can be dangerous, as temperatures inside a parked car can reach well over 100 degrees. Here are some tips to help keep you and your passengers cool while driving during the summer months.
-Start by parking in the shade whenever possible. This will help keep the interior temperature of your car down.
-If you don’t have access to shade, use a sunshade on your windshield. This will help block out the sun’s rays and keep the car cooler.
-Crack your windows to allow for air circulation. This will help to ventilate the car and keep the air moving.
-Turn on your air conditioning and aim the vents towards the floor. This will help to cool the air as it circulates in the car.
-Avoid using your car’s heater, as this will only make the air hotter.
-Wear loose, light clothing when driving. This will help to keep you cool and comfortable.
-Bring along a small fan to help circulate the air inside the car.
-Keep a bottle of water with you to stay hydrated. This will also help to keep your body temperature down.
