A few strong to marginally severe thunderstorms are possible across the Southeast U.S. Friday. A Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) outlook has been issued. Strong winds and hail will be the main threats. Elevated to locally critical fire weather conditions will persist across south-central Colorado today due to dry conditions and gusty winds. Read More >
The WetBulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) is a measure of the heat stress in direct sunlight, which takes into account: temperature, humidity, wind speed, sun angle and cloud cover (solar radiation). This differs from the heat index, which takes into consideration temperature and humidity and is calculated for shady areas. If you work or exercise in direct sunlight, this is a good element to monitor. Military agencies, OSHA and many nations use the WBGT as a guide to managing workload in direct sunlight.
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WetBulb Globe Temperature | Heat Index |
Comparison with Heat Index
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Examples
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Preparedness - What to do before doing outdoor activities when the WBGT is high -
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Other Resources
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More WBGT Information WBGT Research Paper OSHA work load and WBGT Manual |
Suggested Actions and Impact Prevention | ||
WBGT(F)
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Effects
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Precautionary Actions
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< 80 | ||
80-85 | Working or exercising in direct sunlight will stress your body after 45 minutes. | Take at least 15 minutes of breaks each hour if working or exercising in direct sunlight |
85-88 | Working or exercising in direct sunlight will stress your body after 30 minutes. | Take at least 30 minutes of breaks each hour if working or exercising in direct sunlight |
88-90 | Working or exercising in direct sunlight will stress your body after 20 minutes. | Take at least 40 minutes of breaks each hour if working or exercising in direct sunlight |
>90 | Working or exercising in direct sunlight will stress your body after 15 minutes. | Take at least 45 minutes of breaks each hour if working or exercising in direct sunlight |