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The heat isn't the only thing causing concern to residents; there's also a growing concern about air quality. 

When you head outdoors, it's what you can't see or hear that poses a threat.

"The gravel ozone is something you can't see," said DHEC spokesman Jack Porter.  "Every time you take a breath, you're breathing in that pollution."

Pollution caused when hot, hazy, humid, stagnant air combine, ultimately causing poor air quality. 

Jack Porter with the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, says a "Code Orange Ozone Alert" has been issued for some parts of the state.

"It can enflame your lung tissue, it can exasperate pre-existing health conditions," said Porter.

The Ozone Alert can create heightened concern for sensitive groups, including the very young, elderly and those with asthma. 

Columbia residents like Pete Galinis says he knows how bothersome bad ozone days can be.

"It feels like heck, with the double hockey sticks," said Galinis.

He moved from Arizona expecting to get some relief, instead uncovering a sweltering difference between here and there.

"The humidity is terrible," said Galinis.  "I mean, in Arizona 110 degrees is nothing.  But you come here and 90 degrees is like 110."

And with little rain, the Palmetto State could experience a water crisis.

"We are on the verge of certainly short term measures of drought," said USC Climatologist Greg Carbone.  "But we're monitoring that very closely."

Jack Porter says those enjoying the outdoors also must be closely monitored.  And when it doubt, stay out of the heat.

"Especially with the young and the elderly we don't want a lot of kids running around, obviously getting overheated anyways," said Porter.  "And then possibly having problems with their breathing."