Weather

Pet paws on sizzling streets: Beware dangerous pavement temperatures

Taking walks during these hot afternoons can be dangerous to the paws, so stick to the shade or grass during the summer months.

Posted Updated

By
Aimee Wilmoth
, WRAL weather executive producer

Summer is here and so is the sweltering heat. While we need to check on the elderly and stay well hydrated, we also need to take special care of our pets too!

Taking walks during these hot afternoons can be dangerous to the paws, so stick to the shade or grass during the summer months.

Pavement temperatures are hotter than the actual air temperatures. Check out the graphic below. I always check the pavement temperature with the back of my hand for seven seconds before taking my dog for a walk.

If it's too hot for my hand, it's too hot for the pups!

Asphalt temperatures

It's pretty crazy to think that asphalt temperatures can be so high with temperatures in the 70s. When the air temperature climbs to 77 degrees, asphalt surfaces can climb into the triple digits when in the direct sunlight and with no wind.

As our globe continues to get warmer and warmer, we are experiencing more days in the summer months above 77 degrees -- 12 more days compared to summers back in 1970.

Dog days of summer

We have an exclusive product that can tell you the current pavement temperature and a forecast for future pavement temperatures. And sine days those temps can be dangerously high -- well above 100 degrees. You can expect that on several afternoons in July and August.

Just like us humans, pets need to take it easy in the summer heat. Many are covered in a fur coat that makes it even hotter! Don't let your pets overdo it in this heat. Never leave your pets in the car. And always make sure they have plenty of water and a cool spot to hang out. Stay cool, everyone!

Pet safety

 Credits 

Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.