Description:
What Is the Heat Index?
Definition: A measure of how hot it feels when relative humidity is combined with air temperature.
Purpose: Indicates perceived "muggy" heat and risks like heat exhaustion.
Why Not the Others?
❌ Heat wave index: Tracks prolonged extreme heat events, not humidity effects.
❌ Heat stress index: A broader term (includes factors like wind/sun exposure) but not the standard for temp+humidity.
Example:
90°F (32°C) + 60% humidity → Feels like 100°F (38°C) per heat index.
Danger Zone:
Above 103°F (39°C): High risk of heatstroke.
Fun Fact: The heat index was developed in 1979 by R.G. Steadman. 🌡️💦