Humidity is the bane for anyone who hates frizzy hair and the sensation of sweating. It is a way of measuring the amount of water vapor in the air. Humidity is prevalent when the weather is warm. As water evaporates it is suspended in the air, giving us that too familiar heavy, wet, heat.
The classic southern trope of people swaying absentmindedly on rocking chairs exists for a reason. You know the one, where they are invariably sipping from a glass that clinks with ice and drips with condensation like it was meant to be. Besides being a peaceful way to pass an afternoon, it is a suggestion how to best combat the weather conditions here in eastern North Carolina. When the summer wind, heat and humidity are high it is important to take it easy whenever possible.
When it is muggy outside, the humidity is high. And in Topsail, where the weather is hot and the ocean is wet, summer air is ripe with water vapor. Sea mist becomes coastal air.
Danger
There are some dangers affiliated with humidity. People with labored breathing might find the transition between outside heat and air-conditioned interiors to be straining. It is suggested that people with breathing problems stay inside with air conditioning during the hottest and most humid days to minimize the chances of an episode. This article has more information about combatting humidity and poor air quality in the home.
Hyperthermia is also a risk in places with high humidity. Hyperthermia occurs when natural sweating is impeded by too much moisture on the skin and leads to heat stroke. Heat stroke can be fatal is not addressed immediately. The best way to combat hyperthermia is hydration and monitoring body temperature.
The humidity of Topsail beach weather might be an adjustment. Some days, the first step outside is all it takes to feel sweaty. Most of that moisture is being pulled out of the air onto your skin. Try dressing in loose fitting clothing to allow air circulation to dry off sweat and maintain a healthy internal temperature. Although counterintuitive, wearing long pants and sleeves (made from loose material that breathes such as cotton, linen, or chambray) will keep some of that sun and moisture from the skin.
And, pro tip, go easy on makeup in the summer humidity. You will sweat, and it will melt. If going au natural is not an option, setting sprays are available to help hold your face in place.
*My personal favorite setting spray is Smashbox Primer Water – I always have at least two bottles in the house!
And, although it doesn’t anything to do with humidity but everything to do with summer sun, wear sunblock. Reapply it throughout the day. Don’t argue with us, just do it.
The humidity will get thick. By the middle of July it begins to seem like just breathing should keep you amply hydrated. When these days come, one final suggestion: Topsail is one of the best North Carolina vacation spots because it is oceanfront. Embrace the humidity by diving into the Atlantic, then sweat through it on the sand. “Personal days” are made surf side and sandcastle escapes.
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