Kim Janey declares heat emergency in Boston, opens cooling centers beginning Monday

Acting Mayor Kim Janey declared a heat emergency from Monday through Wednesday, when a heat wave is expected to push temperatures into the 90s.

“It is going to be dangerously hot, so I’m asking everyone to take steps to stay safe over the next few days,” Janey said. “Let’s look out for each other, Boston. If you see someone outside who appears in distress and needs help, call 911 right away. Drink plenty of water. Try to avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the middle of the day.”

Sunday’s temperature could reach a high near 91 in Boston, with wind gusts as high as 29 mph, according to the National Weather Service.

Monday and Tuesday’s highs are expected to near 95, followed by Wednesday, when the temperature is expected to reach as high as 93.

“For areas inland, it could feel more like 100,” said Rob Megnia, a meteorologist with the weather service.

Thursday’s high could dip to near 89, and Friday’s is expected to be near 82.

There will be a chance of showers from Wednesday to Friday, according to the National Weather Service.

The normal high at this time of year in the Boston area is about 80 degrees, Megnia said, but warm, moist air from the southern states and the Gulf of Mexico is flowing north, pushing up temperatures.

To help residents stay cool, cooling centers will be open at Boston Centers for Youth & Families community centers from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday. A full list of centers can be found at Boston.gov/Heat.

The Frog Pond on Boston Common and tot sprays are open at parks and playgrounds throughout the city. Several indoor BCYF pools are available for recreational swim, and the outdoor BCYF Mirabella Pool in the North End will be open on Wednesday. Preregister for a time to swim at all pools at Boston.gov/BCYF-Registration.

Information on heat safety tips can be found online at boston.gov/heat and by following @CityofBoston on Twitter. Residents can sign up for Alert Boston, the city’s emergency notification system, to receive emergency alerts by phone, email or text. Residents also can call 311 with any questions about available city services.

Janey stressed that children and pets should never be left alone in vehicles, even for short periods of time. And people should know the signs of heat exhaustion: Heavy sweating, cool and clammy skin, dizziness, nausea and muscle aches  If symptoms persist, call 911 immediately.

Heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S. and can exacerbate underlying illnesses.

If you have a child in your home, use child window guards in addition to screens on any open window on the second story or above. Falls are the leading cause of injury for children under the age of 6.

Janey also asked people to call or virtually check on neighbors, especially older adults, and people with disabilities.

 

from Boston Herald https://ift.tt/3jjk1BN