With heat and humidity making the air feel like it's more than 100 degrees this week, you're likely feeling uncomfortable and fatigued when you step outside.
You'll probably have a more painful experience a month from now when your electric bill arrives.
Near-record temperatures in the mid-90s across Tampa Bay and scant thunderstorms have made the heat particularly oppressive over the past few days.
The demand for energy hits a peak at the height of summer.Forecasters expect thunderstorms starting Wednesday, which should clip high temperatures a bit. But warm, dry winds traveling across Florida from the east could cause temperatures to return to scorching levels early next week.
Duke Energy spokesman Sterling Ivey said the company monitors weather patterns to predict and plan for spikes in energy demand.
Duke Energy recommends you set your thermostat at 78 degrees, Ivey said. For every degree above 78, a household can save 10 percent on cooling costs.
If it's hotter than what you're used to, your blood circulation has to work harder to maintain a normal body temperature, said Rebecca Lopez, an assistant professor of athletic training at the University of South Florida. This leads to the sluggish feeling you get after being in the sun for a long time.
Additionally, Florida's stifling humidity prevents sweat from evaporating quickly, a process that lowers body temperature.
"If you're someone who works outside all the time, you will be able to deal a little better," Lopez said. "It really has to do with what you're doing outside in the heat and how used to it you are."
She noted that it's important to take frequent breaks from the heat, stay hydrated and try to exercise or work outside during the cooler hours of the day.
