![](https://cdn.socast.io/6616/sites/389/2021/03/18110604/Health-Department-sign.jpeg)
By Blake Haas
BLOOMINGTON – Central Illinois is in the dog days of summer, and the McLean County Health Department has some advice in dealing with the heat.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, temperatures are warmer than average, with more heat on the way.
“Dehydration is one of the first things that usually happens to most of us,” Marianne Manko, Public Affairs Coordinator at the McLean County Health Department, said on the afternoon show. “It’s amazing; we need an amazing amount of water.”
During the hot summer months, the health department reports people need around 3-4 liters on an average day and more when it’s hot.
“If all of us had enough water, we could dramatically reduce constipation, blood clots, kidney stones, weight gains, high blood pressure, and even anxiety,” added Manko.
A lack of water can also lead to muscle cramps, fatigue, and even a fever.
Blake Haas can be reached at [email protected].