There is a heat dome projected to come to the Northeast this week with temperatures in the low to high 90’s from Tuesday through Friday.
Please prepare for the heat wave by making yourself aware of nearby cooling centers, installing window air conditioners if needed, and checking in on neighbors who might be at risk. If you yourself are at risk, please make sure someone is aware of your situation in case you need assistance.
From Newton’s Climate Vulnerability Plan:
“Heat is the number one cause of U.S. weather fatalities over the past decade (EPA/NOAA). Heat waves are often accompanied by poor air quality, exacerbating chronic respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.”
“Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and death. Heat exhaustion is the most common heat-related illness and if untreated, it may progress to heat stroke. People who perform manual labor, particularly those who work outdoors, are at increased risk for heat-related illnesses. Prolonged heat exposure can also exacerbate pre-existing conditions, including respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular disease, and mental illnesses.”
“The senior population is often at elevated risk due to a high prevalence of pre-existing and chronic conditions. People who live in older housing stock (as is often the case with public housing), and in housing without air conditioning have increased vulnerability to heat-related illnesses. Power failures are more likely to occur during heat waves, affecting the ability of residents to remain cool during extreme heat. Individuals with pre-existing conditions and those who require electric medical equipment may be at increased risk during a power outage. Loss of refrigeration can result in food-borne illnesses if contaminated food is ingested.”
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