Northwest Florida under heat advisory until 6 p.m.; heat index may reach 110 degrees

Escambia and Santa Rosa counties are under a heat advisory until 6 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.

Heat index values may reach as high as approximately 110 degrees across the western Florida Panhandle and portions of southeast Mississippi, coastal and south-central Alabama.

Prolonged exposure to these conditions can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion and cramps.

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The Weather Service advises folks to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on vulnerable relatives and neighbors.

This week's forecast calls for highs around 90 degrees through Friday.

Those who work or recreate outside should, whenever possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening, wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing, take frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments and learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.