Heat Advisory, Code Orange Air Quality Alert Issued In MD Tuesday

MARYLAND — A heat advisory is in effect Tuesday for parts of central and northeastern Maryland. An air quality alert has also been issued for parts of the state. More heat advisories and severe storms are also possible this week, officials say.

Heat indices may be 100 to 105 degrees Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service.

These areas are under the heat advisory, in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday:

• Baltimore City
• Baltimore County
• Carroll County
• Cecil County
• Frederick County
• Harford County
• Howard County
• Washington County

Officials specifically noted these towns as areas that may be impacted, under the heat advisory: Including the cities of Hagerstown, Frederick, Ballenger Creek, Eldersburg, Westminster, Reisterstown, Cockeysville, Elkton, Baltimore, Jarrettsville, Aberdeen, Paw Paw, Martinsburg, Charles Town and Shepherdstown.

Heat-related illnesses may happen due to the high temperatures and humidity, according to authorities. During the heat advisory period, people should stay hydrated, remain in air-conditioning, avoid the sun and check on relatives and neighbors. Children and pets should not be left unattended in vehicles.

See the latest forecast from the National Weather Service.

Air Quality Alert Issued

An air quality alert is in effect for multiple jurisdictions as well on Tuesday.

The Maryland Department of the Environment declares air quality "code orange" when pollution concentrations may be unhealthy for sensitive groups.

Children, older adults, heart/lung disease sufferers and asthmatics are considered sensitive; they should avoid strenuous activity and outdoor exercise Monday to minimize the effects from the air quality, according to the Maryland Department of the Environment.

These areas are under the "code orange" air quality alert Tuesday, July 6: Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Cecil, Harford and Howard counties and Baltimore City.

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Storms, More Heat Possible This Week

Forecasters say severe storms could occur Tuesday afternoon and evening, with potentially damaging wind gusts.

Heat advisories may be possible on Wednesday, when temperatures may reach 100 to 105 degrees on the heat index, according to a hazardous weather outlook from the National Weather Service for the Baltimore-Washington area.

"There is a slight severe storm threat for Friday and Sunday," officials said. "Scattered severe storms are possible."

How To Stay Safe In The Heat

If someone has signs of heat-related illness, move the person to a cool, shaded area and call 911. Put cold, wet compresses on the person if possible.

Heat stroke, the most serious heat-related illness, can be fatal if not treated immediately.

It occurs when the body's temperature rises rapidly and the sweating mechanism fails, leading to overheating without a way to cool down.

Symptoms include confusion; slurred speech; seizures; hot, dry skin or extreme sweating; altered mental status; very high body temperature; and loss of consciousness/coma.

Here are several ways to stay safe during the heat advisory period:

Lighten up. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors reflect away some of the sun's energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella.

Drink water. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body. Avoid salt tablets unless directed by a physician.

Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.

Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 and 7 a.m.

Stay inside. If air-conditioning is not available, go to the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember that electric fans do not cool; they simply circulate the air.

Be a good neighbor. During heat waves, check in on elderly residents in your neighborhood and those who do not have air conditioning.