FEELING THE HEAT IN ATLANTA

One week into the Olympics, the punishing Southern heat has sickened nearly 400 people, health officials said Thursday, but free water, fans, icy bandannas and other ingenious devices have held off a widespread meltdown.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said 372 spectators and staff were treated for heat-related illnesses between July 6 and July 23--54 of them during the opening ceremonies. Nine of those had fainted from the heat.

Most were treated at portable medical trailers for dehydration, heat cramps and mild fainting spells, but 10 of the victims were sent to hospitals, said Dr. Edward Baker, a CDC public health expert.

“Folks seem to be pretty well-prepared,” said Debra Bloom, spokeswoman for Emory University’s Crawford Long Hospital, which has seen fewer heat patients than expected.

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Newsday’s John Jeansonne: “Yes, it’s hot in Atlanta. But do they really need to crank up the air conditioning so high?”

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Feeling The Heat In Atlanta

Monday’s Temperature: 80 degrees

Monday Heat Index: 81 degrees

Today’s Forecast: 90 degrees