The next two days will be very hot across the region. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wakefield has issued a warning that the heat index could reach 40 degrees Celsius at times on Wednesday and Thursday.

“Heat will reach 105 degrees Fahrenheit,” the NWS warning states. “Please limit time outdoors and drink water even if you are not thirsty. Plan accordingly for children in school sports and pets who are outside.”

Fortunately, most outdoor sports are not taking place today. The Cumberland Junior Varsity football game was canceled because too many players on the William Campbell team were injured. Also on Tuesday night was the Prince Edward Middle School football game, in which the Eagles took the lead and won 34-0.

Additionally, at least one school district will shorten classes due to the heat. Buckingham County Public Schools has announced that all buildings will close at 12:30 p.m. today.

But a quick reminder about the heat index. We’re not just talking about temperature, which should be hot enough at around 35 to 36 degrees. The heat index is the temperature that the human body feels when combined with humidity. Basically, it’s not a good time for anyone to be outside or in the heat for any length of time over the next two days. This is especially true for the elderly and people suffering from chronic diseases.

“The heat increases the likelihood of heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” NWS officials said in the warning. “In this heat, you need to take 15- to 30-minute breaks while outside.”

The positive thing is that this heat wave will not last long. NWS meteorologists are expecting showers and thunderstorms as well as a cold front for Thursday night.

National Weather Service warns of diseases

In other words, staying outside for too long can be dangerous. NWS officials also advise paying attention to the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion has symptoms such as dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating, nausea and general weakness. Heat stroke causes confusion. In any case, get out of the sun and inside if possible. Find some water to drink and loosen your clothing.

In other words, it can be dangerous for people to spend too long outdoors. To help residents, libraries across the region can be used as cooling centers.

These cooling centers are located at the following locations:

County of Buckingham

• Central Virginia Regional Library
  16266 N. James Madison Highway, Dillwyn
  The Cooling Center is open today and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Cumberland County

• Cumberland Library
  1539 Anderson Highway
  The Cooling Center is open today and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

City of Farmville

• Farmville-Prince Edward Community Library
  1303 W. 3rd Street
  The Cooling Center is open today, Saturday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.