Goodbye to coffee: these are the 11 states where the NWS recommended avoiding alcohol and caffeine consumption
It may not seem like a major factor, but as well as sunscreen and sensible clothing, what you consume can also impact your heat health.
If a cup of morning Joe – have you ever wondered where that moniker came from? – is what gets you going each day, then you’re not going to like the advice coming from the National Weather Service (NWS). Across a number of states in the U.S., 11 to be precise, the guidance is that the drink should be avoided for a period of time.
Why is coffee and alcohol off the menu?
The reason for the advice is simple enough: when it’s really hot, it’s best to avoid caffeine, as well as alcohol, which can lead to further dehydration.
When the temperature rockets, a number of health issues can follow, especially in the old, young and those with existing medical conditions. Hopefully scoring coffee and alcohol off the drinks list isn’t going to be an issue for the younger members of the family, but everyone else should take care with this.
Which states are on the list?
Extreme heat warnings were issued for parts of California, Nevada, Oregon, Arizona, and Utah due to dangerously high temperatures. Forecasts included:
- California & Oregon: Up to 110°F, especially in western Siskiyou County.
- Utah: Around 110°F in lower Washington County and Zion National Park.
- Arizona: Up to 115°F in the lower Grand Canyon.
- Nevada (Las Vegas): Between 110°F and 115°F.
- Death Valley: Expected highs between 120°F and 125°F.
Less severe heat advisories were in effect for parts of Washington, Idaho, Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, and Georgia, where high heat index values could also reach the triple digits.
What should I drink instead of coffee in the heat?
The NWS says that during these very warm periods you should target a good old glass of water, or more likely several of them. You can also grab a sports drink, those packed with electrolytes to help your body replace any lost from sweating. And don’t worry, the cooler weather isn’t too far away so you’ll be back enjoying your favorite tipples soon enough.
You can check any local warnings using the search option on the official NWS website.
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