What happens to the body in extreme heat? Experts explain the heat wave's dangerous impact.

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"Rapid rises in heat gain due to exposure to hotter than average conditions compromises the body's ability to regulate temperature and can result in a cascade of illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and hyperthermia," the World Heath Organization's website states. "Temperature extremes can also worsen chronic conditions, including cardiovascular, respiratory, and cerebrovascular disease and diabetes-related conditions."

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While anyone is at risk from heat-related illnesses, children, pregnant women and older adults are more susceptible to adverse effects because they're less able to regulate body temperature, according to the National Institutes of Health. 

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Researchers who have studied the limits to how much heat humans can tolerate note that even less-extreme temperatures with higher humidity can put stress on the heart and other body systems.

The bottom line? Not matter what, stay hydrated and take steps to reduce your time in the heat to stay safe.

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