Yes. Heat stroke is possible in 70-degree weather, even though it is less likely than on a very hot day. Hard exercise, direct sun, high humidity, heavy clothing, dehydration, and poor airflow can make it difficult for your body to shed heat. Your risk may also be higher if you are not used to exercise or heat, have certain medical conditions, or take medications that affect temperature regulation.
The air temperature alone does not tell the whole story. A strenuous run in the sun can put you under more heat stress than a gentle walk in the shade. Dogs can also overheat in mild weather, especially during exercise, in enclosed spaces, or if they have difficulty breathing.
Call 911 immediately if you or someone nearby has signs of heat illness along with confusion, fainting, a seizure, or loss of consciousness. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. A very high body temperature is another warning sign, but do not delay calling for help while looking for a thermometer. Skin may be hot and dry, or the person may still be sweating.
Move the person to a cool place and begin cooling immediately. Remove excess clothing and, if possible, immerse them in cold water. Otherwise, wet their skin with cool water and fan them, or apply cold wet towels or ice packs. Do not give an unconscious person anything to drink.
Choose lighter activity when you are exercising in direct sun, take breaks in the shade, and drink water regularly. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and give yourself time to adjust to a new exercise routine. Stop and cool down if you feel dizzy, weak, nauseated, or unusually hot.
For your dog, bring water on outings, offer frequent breaks, and avoid leaving them in a parked car, even when the weather feels mild. If your dog shows severe panting, weakness, confusion, or collapse, move them to a cool area, begin cooling them with water, and contact an emergency veterinarian immediately. Our team shares more warning signs and emergency steps in our guide to heat stroke in dogs.
Heat stroke can cause confusion, fainting, seizures, or loss of consciousness after heat exposure or exertion, often with a very high body temperature. Call 911 and start cooling immediately if you suspect it.
Heat exhaustion can cause heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, weakness, and headache without the confusion or loss of consciousness associated with heat stroke. Other conditions can cause similar symptoms, so seek medical help if symptoms are severe, worsen, or do not improve with cooling.
The emergency team will rapidly cool you, monitor your temperature and vital signs, and check for complications such as organ damage. Treatment may also include fluids and other supportive care as needed.
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