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Mayor Wu extends heat emergency in Boston as sizzling summer scorcher continues

BOSTON — Mayor Michelle Wu on Monday extended the heat emergency in Boston as sizzling summer temperatures continue to grip the region.

The previously announced heat emergency will now remain in place through Tuesday due to dangerous temperatures that are in the forecast to start the work week, according to Wu. Temperatures are expected to dip down into the 70s come Wednesday.

“With the weather forecast now showing the high temperatures and humidity lasting through Tuesday, we’re extending the heat emergency to make sure all of our Boston residents and families are safe,” Wu said. “As we continue to see intense heat impact our region, It is clear that a changing climate is a big risk to our health and communities right now. I encourage residents to continue to utilize our cooling centers and splash pads, and to check on your neighbors.”

Along with pools and splash pads, there are also 16 cooling centers open throughout Boston in case people need a place to escape the brutally hot temperatures.

If you plan on going to a city pool, you’ll need a reservation. You can sign up online 24 hours in advance, and you’re limited to your time slot to keep the pools from getting too packed. Boston Public Library locations are also available for residents to seek relief from the heat. The East Boston and Egleston Square branches recently installed misters in their outdoor free Wi-Fi zones.

In recent days, Boston EMS responded to 51 incidents that were directly attributed to the heat. During last month’s heat wave, Boston EMS experienced a 15-20 percent rise in daily calls to 9-1-1.

“Everyone, regardless of how healthy or young you are, is susceptible to heat-related illness,” Boston EMS Chief James Hooley said. “As we look forward to relief in the future forecast, continue to increase your water intake, scale back on outdoor exercise, and seek in-door air conditioned places during peak temperatures.”

Mayor Wu shared the following safety tips:

  • Children and pets should never be left alone in vehicles, even for short periods of time.
  • Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids regardless of activity level. Avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine.
  • Keep cool with frequent cool showers, shade, and air conditioning or fans.
  • Limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. Rest often in shady areas and be extra cautious from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., when the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation is strongest.
  • Know the signs of heat exhaustion. Heavy sweating, cool and clammy skin, dizziness, nausea, and muscle aches could all be signs of heat exhaustion. If symptoms persist, call 911 immediately. Do not delay care. Heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S. and can exacerbate underlying illnesses.
  • Adults and children should use sunscreen containing an SPF-30 or higher and wear protective, loose-fitting clothing including long sleeve shirts and hats.
  • 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 six.
  • Secure all window air conditioner units according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • If you are heading to a beach, lake, or pool to beat the heat, swim where lifeguards are present. Always watch children near the water and make sure they’re wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
  • Please call or check on neighbors, especially older adults and people with disabilities.
  • Please keep pets indoors, hydrated, and cool as asphalt and ground conditions are significantly hotter and unsafe during heat.

For the latest forecast updates, visit the Boston 25 Weather page.

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