As summer heat settles into Gastonia, whether you’re walking the South Fork River Greenway, exploring Rankin Lake Park, or spending the afternoon outdoors with family, it’s important to understand the difference between heat exhaustion and the more serious, life-threatening heatstroke. Recognizing early warning signs and acting quickly can make all the difference on hot, humid days. What Is Heat Exhaustion and How It Starts Heat exhaustion happens when your body gradually overheats, often ...