JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – Everyone handles the heat differently, but what if there’s a game on the line?
The WITN First Alert Weather Team says for the next five days, temperatures will reach the high 90s with a heat index in the triple digits.
The Jacksonville Ospreys players understand the high temperatures. On Friday, they had their first ever playoff game.
WITN spoke with players on how they cope with the heat.
“I mean, it’s hard especially when you’re out there in the field,” said player Chase Killens. “It’s just hard to hide from the sun.”
Killens shared he stays hydrated and takes breaks as needed. His teammate, Aiden Strickland, says shade and air conditioning are his friends.
“There are picnic tables,” said Strickland. “We stay under there or we stay in our cars when it’s like super hot like this.”
For the fans, there are shaded areas on the right side of the field and ice cold beverages sold at the concession stands. The team’s owner told WITN he applied for a grant to add more shaded areas throughout the park over the summer months.
Meanwhile, grandmother Teresa Hatchel says with temperatures high, the splash pad is her go-to place.
“It is so hot with the temperature,” said Hatchel. “A lot of the older people can’t even breathe because of the humidity, so this is the perfect thing needed in our city.”
Whether you stay in or brace the heat, be sure to listen to what your body needs.
“Some place that has substantial air conditioning to help keep you cool,” said WITN meteorologist Charlie Ironmonger. “You don’t have to exert your body in this type of temperatures that only have a negative impact on your health.”
It is suggested to check your air filter within the next day while the temperatures are high and replace it if needed.
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