Columbus County Opens Hydration Stations as Heat Index Nears 105° This Weekend

bottle water (1) — Columbus County Opens Hydration Stations as Heat Index Nears 105°

Fire departments will provide free bottled water July 3–5 as dangerous heat conditions develop.

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC — Columbus County Emergency Services is monitoring the potential for dangerous heat across the area this holiday weekend. The National Weather Service is forecasting heat index values of 105 degrees or higher, with the hottest conditions expected Friday through Sunday.

To support residents during the extreme heat, the county is sponsoring hydration stations will have bottled water on hand at the following locations:

Klondyke-Chadbourn Fire & Rescue – 204 North Wilson Street, Chadbourn
Nakina Fire & Rescue – 214 Ramsey Ford Road, Nakina
Whiteville City Fire Department – 120 East Columbus Street, Whiteville
Lake Waccamaw Fire Department – 203 Flemington Drive, Lake Waccamaw

Hydration stations will operate Friday, July 3 through Sunday July 5 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.

County officials urge residents not to let the extreme temperatures catch them off guard. Recommended precautions include drinking plenty of water even before feeling thirsty, wearing light‑colored and lightweight clothing, taking frequent breaks in shaded or air‑conditioned areas, and pacing outdoor activity to avoid overexertion. Emergency Services also reminds residents to never children and pets in a parked vehicle, not even for a moment, and that pets need access to fresh water and a cool place to rest.

Officials encourage residents to know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and to call 9-1-1 immediately if someone shows symptoms or is in distress.