Skip to main content
Friday, October 30, 2026Oct 30

This story is free to read.

‘Summertime’ – it’s hot!

The popular old-standard song “Summertime” in the famed operetta “Porgy and Bess” describes this season as being “when the livin’ is easy.” Well, maybe. But summertime also is the season that’s hot. And this August has begun a lot hotter than usual.

Even though we in the South are somewhat accustomed to high temperatures, we are sweltering now as there are several days in a row when our thermometers are close to or above 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

August this year has started out with a real heat wave.

We all like summer – but many 100-degree days can cause serious problems for some.

It’s not possible for everyone to find a swimming pool or lake, and air conditioning isn’t universally available. Lots of people have to work outdoors, and really feel the heat. When temperatures are as high as they are these days, it’s important for everyone to be careful. Older people who don’t have air conditioning and those who must work outdoors need to be particularly cautious.