Extreme heat Advisory

This was taken from an email shared by the Boston Public Health Commission.

This coming weekend, the National Weather Service is forecasting a multi-day high heat event. Friday through Sunday, the Heat Index is expected to rise to dangerous levels, with Saturday forecasts reaching a Heat Index of 105°F and above 95°F Sunday. Overnight, temperatures are not expected to drop below 80°F Friday or Saturday which makes it harder for the human body to cool down and recover, elevating the health threats. Mayor Walsh recently issued a press release asking residents to take precautions during this period of hot weather. At this time, the Mayor has not declared a Heat Emergency.

In the US, extreme heat contributes to hundreds of deaths each year. Extreme heat is often called a silent killer as not only can heat be dangerous to health by itself, but it can also exacerbate pre-existing health issues. Additionally, some areas in Boston are hotter due to elevation, limited shade from trees, and heat-retaining structures, like buildings and roads.

• Everyone is at risk of extreme heat. A single hot day can lead to health problems, but multiple hot days in a row bring the most risk.

• Heat affects people unequally. Individuals who are over 65 years old, have chronic medical conditions or disabilities, work outdoors, experience homelessness, use substances, or live in areas with less tree coverage are more at risk.

We have worked with other City of Boston departments to develop multilingual fact sheets on extreme heat for the most high-risk groups. These are available for download in English and 10 other languages on boston.gov/heat. Please also share these with our community partners and encourage them to share the information with their networks.

We recognize that as a City agency, we are not only responsible for the health and well-being of our employees, but also considering the safety of our clients. We urge our staff to consider the following for both your programs and your own family and friends:

• Reschedule or relocate outdoor events to indoor locations. If not possible, consider what shade or cooling methods are available.

• Check on family, friends, neighbors, the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those who do not have air conditioning or who are often alone.

• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity. This is particularly important for individuals who work outside, as well as athletes and children at summer camps.

• Individuals may need to drink more water than usual to stay hydrated.

• Stay cool. Spend time in air-conditioned spaces if possible, especially during the hottest parts of the day (generally 11am – 5pm). Boston Public Libraries and Boston Centers for Youth & Families' community centers will be open normal business hours. The City maintains a map of all of the City’s community center pools and City-owned tot sprays.

• Plan for overnight cooling options. If a building does not have air-conditioning or good ventilation, this might be uncomfortable for some but dangerous for others. Consider what alternative options are feasible.

• Avoid or lower intake of caffeine and alcohol as these can dehydrate the body further and worsen the effects of extreme heat.

• Wear sunscreen. Sunburn raises body temperature and makes it more difficult to cool down.

• Know the signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses. Seek medical care if you feel unwell.