The New Mexico Department of Health encourages people statewide to be mindful of heat-related illness and know the signs to watch for during this period of extreme heat.

It is forecast that most of the state with exceptions of high mountain regions (over 7,000 feet above sea level) will experience temperatures approaching or even above 100 degrees Fahrenheit lasting through the upcoming weekend.

Outdoor recreation and activities should be avoided between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. during these high-temperature days. The Department of Health reminds New Mexicans to never leave children or pets in a parked car even for a few minutes.

Heat stress can have many symptoms like dizziness, nausea, cramping and weakness and can progress to heat stroke and death, if left unchecked. For more information, visit www.nmtracking.org/health/heatstress/Heat.html or www.nmhealth.org.