Weather: Boston Declares Heat Wave Emergency

Photo by Pascal Bernardon in Unsplash

Boston City Council has declared a heat wave emergency that began Saturday, June 21 and will extend through Tuesday, June 24. According to the National Meteorological Service, The weather in Boston could break its record of 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.7 °C):

“Dangerously hot conditions are expected, with heat index values as high as 110 degrees Fahrenheit… Drink plenty of water, stay in air-conditioned areas, avoid sun exposure, and check on the health of your family and neighbors.”

This Monday, the Weather Service expects "dangerously high" temperatures, which will increase the following day. On Tuesday, temperatures in the city will reach their highest point, posing a danger to Boston residents if they don't take precautionary measures to protect themselves from the weather. 

Previously, the hottest June 24th in Boston reached 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 °C) in 2013. The hottest June day holds the record of 100 degrees Fahrenheit, occurring in several different years. Although the city has faced similar temperatures before, this heat wave still poses several risks to the population.

Resources to Combat the Climate from Boston

The Boston City Council declared a state of “heat wave emergency,” which includes several resources to help Boston residents cope with this weather. Mayor Michelle Wu shared the following message:

“With this heat wave emergency at the start of the summer season, we ask our community members to take care of themselves and properly prepare for extreme heat. City staff are working to ensure all residents have a safe and enjoyable summer. Be sure to stay hydrated, take breaks if working outdoors, and regularly check in on your neighbors, friends, and family.”

Measures taken by the City of Boston to combat this heat wave include:

• Water play areas (Splash Pads).
• Public drinking fountains.
• Public swimming pools.
• Select Boston Youth and Family centers will open as heat shelters.
• Public libraries will open as heat shelters.

The Boston City Council also published a dedicated page to accessible resources to stay safe during this emergency. Nearly all City of Boston resources are available in Spanish, but if you need more help with translation services, go to this page.

If you have any questions about one of these services, or any other non-emergency problem, Boston residents are encouraged to call the number 311. If you have an emergency, do not hesitate to contact the emergency services with 911. 

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Sources:

• BOSTON HERALD