Jackson, Mich. (WKHM) — As many Jackson County families send their kids back to school this week, the area is facing a heat advisory in effect from 8 a.m. Thursday to 2 a.m. Friday with a heat index of up to 104 degrees expected. Some area schools have shortened Thursday to a half-day to avoid the potential for heat-related illnesses. Contact your school district for the latest information.

The National Weather Service (NWS) offers the following tips for dealing with the heat:

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

There is also a potential for thunderstorms this evening in the Jackson area. According to NWS, any thunderstorms that develop this evening over Lower Michigan will have the potential to be severe. The best chance of any severe weather will be near and east of US127. Damaging winds, large hail, and localized flooding are the main concerns in any storms. Stay tuned to WKHM for the latest.