Everything you need to know about the heat wave that's scorching Cleveland and Northeast Ohio

CLEVELAND — With an Excessive Heat Warning now in effect across Northeast Ohio through Saturday night, there are several tips and precautions that residents should take to stay safe as temperatures rise.

When and where?

The Heat Warning, which is issued when a prolonged period of high heat is expected, is in effect through Saturday evening in Northeast Ohio. The highest heat index values (how hot it will feel) will take place in the late afternoon into the early evening but little relief will occur overnight with low temperatures only dipping to the 70s near 80 degrees. The heat and humidity may cause heat stress while outside.

Heat indices ranging from 105 to as high as 112 degrees will be possible.

See the latest Power of 5 forecast here.

How to stay cool

Many cooling centers will be open. Residents without air conditioning are encouraged the make use of them.

Find a link to the list of cooling centers here.

Eight Cleveland recreation centers will have extended hours during the hot weather. Read more here.

Cuyahoga County officials have a useful acronym to help remember what to do during extreme high temperatures: Beat the H.E.A.T.

• Hydrate. Whether you feel thirsty or not, drink plenty of water to avoid becoming dehydrated, especially when working or exercising outside.
• Educate yourself. Know your local weather, temperature and heat index forecasts. Take actions to stay cool and safe with the temperature hits 85 degrees or the heat index is 90 degrees. Know the warning signs of heat illness, and how you can stay cool.
• Act quickly when a heat illness is suspected. Seek medical attention immediately for any of these warning signs: cramping, rapid pulse, heavy sweating, hot red skin, dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting.
• Take it easy. Anyone working or exercising outdoors should avoid overexertion, especially between the hours of 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Take hourly breaks in the shade or in air conditioning.

Find even more tips for ensuring you are prepared for hot weather here.

Box fans are not your friend

If you don’t have air conditioning, you may be thinking that a box fan is the next best thing. However, with high humidity it could be doing more harm than help. Read more here.

Urban heat islands

The National Weather Service warns that just because the sun goes down, that doesn't mean temps will cool in the city. Read more here.

Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke

Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion, heat stroke and heat cramps, and what to do if you or some.one you know is experiencing any of these conditions.

Read more about these conditions here.

It's hot for your pets, too

Air Quality Advisory

In addition to a Heat Watch, an Air Quality Advisory is also in effect for much of Northeast Ohio. Read more about what the means here.

Power outages are a concern

Cuyahoga Falls is urging residents to reduce electricity usage due to extreme temperatures. Customers can reduce their electric usage by:

• Shutting off lights when leaving unattended rooms
• Raising the thermostat by several degrees
• Closing curtains and blinds
• Saving laundry, dishes and other household chores until later in the evening
• Turning off and unplugging unused electronics and appliances
• Grilling out instead of cooking indoors

Mail service

The U.S. Postal Service does not anticipate that deliveries will be impacted. "Our carriers have water, know to stay hydrated, take breaks, and always call paramedics if they are experiencing any discomfort," said Naddia Dhalai, strategic communication specialist for the Northern Ohio District & Ohio Valley District. "Keeping our employees safe is the top priority of the U.S. Postal Service."

Indians home games

The Tribe is at home, and through Sunday the team says it will have complimentary ice bins and cups available in the left and right field areas at Progressive Field.

Half the country affected

Looking to escape the heat somewhere else? Good luck - half of the U.S. population will see temperatures of at least 95 degrees over the next seven days, according to meteorologists. More than 70 million people are under heat watches, warnings or advisories, including the Midwest. Read more here.

Free ice cream

The Cleveland Fire Department is helping residents beat the heat with a tasty treat. Read more here.

William G. Mather Steamship Museum

The William G. Mather Steamship Museum will be closed Friday and Saturday due to extreme heat. Read more here.