Harford to Reach 106 Degrees on Heat Index Saturday

Harford County is under an excessive heat warning from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 13.

An excessive heat warning means that dangerously high temperatures will occur over a prolonged period.

The National Weather Service issued the warning for Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Harford, Howard and Montgomery counties.

It may feel like 110 degrees Saturday on the heat index, while actual temperatures will be in the mid to upper 90s. Do not leave children or pets unattended in vehicles, where temps can rapidly climb to 130 degrees.

Harford County's heat index Saturday, according to the National Weather Service:

• 10 a.m. — 96 degrees
• 11 a.m. — 100
• Noon — 103
• 1 p.m. — 105
• 2 p.m. — 106
• 3 p.m. — 106
• 4 p.m. — 105
• 5 p.m. — 103
• 6 p.m. — 102
• 7 p.m. — 99
• 8 p.m. — 96
• 9 p.m. — 93
• 10 p.m. — 90
• 11 p.m. — 89

Due to high temperatures and humidity, heat-related illnesses are likely, according to the National Weather Service. Specifically at risk are those without air conditioning or people outside for an extended period.

Cooling centers are open at the following locations, which are branches of Harford County Public Library. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at all branches except for Darlington, which is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Bel Air – 100 E. Pennsylvania Avenue, Bel Air, MD 21014
• Aberdeen – 21 Franklin Street, Aberdeen, MD 21001
• Abingdon – 2510 Tollgate Road Abingdon, MD 21009
• Darlington – 1134 Main Street, Darlington, MD 21034; hours are 3 to 8 p.m.
• Edgewood – 629 Edgewood Road, Edgewood, MD 21040
• Fallston – 1461 Fallston Road, Fallston, MD 21047
• Havre de Grace – 120 N. Union Avenue, Havre de Grace, MD 21078
• Jarrettsville – 3722 Norrisville Road, Jarrettsville, MD 21084
• Joppa – 655 Towne Center Drive, Joppa, MD 21085
• Norrisville – 5310 Norrisville Road, White Hall, MD 21161
• Whiteford – 2407 Whiteford Road, Whiteford, MD 21160

Heat stroke, the most serious heat-related illness, can be fatal if not treated immediately. Symptoms include confusion; slurred speech; seizures; hot, dry skin or extreme sweating; altered mental status; very high body temperature; and loss of consciousness/coma.

If people exhibit signs of heat-related illness, call 911 and move them to a cool, shaded area.

How to Stay Safe in Heat

• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors reflect away some of the sun's energy.
• Drink water even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Schedule strenuous activity for early morning or evening.
• Stay inside when possible. If air-conditioning is not available, go to the lowest floor out of the sunshine.
• Check on older neighbors and those who do not have air conditioning.

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