Cooling Centers To Open In Carroll County As Heat Surges

WESTMINSTER, MD — With heat and humidity expected to grip Carroll County on the Fourth of July and possible into the weekend, and a "feels like" temperature climbing above 90 degrees, officials plan to open a cooling center. Highs are expected reach the upper 80s for the next four days.

Forecasters are anticipating high heat and humidity for the area on Thursday, July 4, so a cooling center will be open that day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 127 Stoner Ave. in Westminster. Officials will monitor conditions over the weekend and open cooling centers if necessary, the county said in a news release. Residents who are vulnerable to extreme heat and who do not have air-conditioning in their homes are encouraged to cool off at the center.

Carroll County Emergency Management reminds residents when temperatures and humidity are high:

• Slow down. Strenuous activities should be reduced or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day.
• Wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing.
• Eat less protein and more fruits and vegetables, and drink plenty of water.
• Stay in air-conditioned buildings or rooms, and limit time outside if possible.

For more information, visit County Health Department website.

The Maryland Department of the Environment has issued a code orange air quality alert Wednesday for the Baltimore metro area. The alert means that air pollution concentrations may be unhealthy for sensitive groups, including children, people suffering from asthma, heart disease or other lung diseases, and the elderly. Those affected should avoid strenuous activity or exercise outdoors.