The recent heat spikes have caused fall sports’ practices and competitions to be canceled at Metea Valley.
According to AccuWeather.com, a temp of 94℉, or 101℉ with 73% humidity, was recorded at 4:10 pm, causing concern for students’ health.
“[The decision was made] in the interest of our student-athletes and their health,” athletic director Matthew Fehrmann said. “It’s rare that we find ourselves in today’s situation multiple times in the fall or spring, but it does happen.”
However, not all practices were canceled. Some teams persevered through the heat and used it as an opportunity to challenge themselves.
“Although it was very hot today, our practice was not canceled,” senior cross-country runner Ishani Townsend said. “It is important for us to be consistent in our runs, so even though running today was difficult, it made us better runners.”
The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) and the Sports Medical Advisory Committee (SMAC) created a chart that helps schools know when activities must be modified or canceled according to the temperature.
The chart states that outdoor sports activities ideally should be canceled at temperatures higher than 89.9℉. All contests and activities should resume once a cooler temperature is reached.
The document also emphasizes the actions that schools must take in case of Exertional Heat Stroke (EHS). Schools should be properly equipped with an EMS (Emergency Medical Services) and institute rapid whole-body cooling using water immersion.
Studies have shown the most effective way to help someone experiencing EHS is an early institution of body cooling. Water, ice bags, fans, or shade are considered to be effective methods of body cooling.
Indoor sports are not affected by excessive heat warnings and cancellations.
“[In times of cancellation due to weather,] indoor programs can continue as scheduled,” Mr. Fehrmann said.
