Heat advisory issued in Mass. with scorching temps, high humidity on tap for rest of week

Frank O'Laughlin
·2 min read

Fire up the air conditioner and keep those hydrating beverages close. Some of us are in for a potential heatwave.

Feeling the heat? Take these steps to stay cool and save your AC system

A heat advisory has been issued for most of Massachusetts with scorching temperatures and high humidity on tap to close out the week.

The advisory is in effect for Central Middlesex, Eastern Essex, Eastern Franklin, Eastern Hampden, Eastern Hampshire, Eastern Norfolk, Eastern Plymouth, Northern Bristol, Northern Worcester, Northwest Middlesex, Southeast Middlesex, Southern Worcester, Suffolk, Western Essex, Western Norfolk, and Western Plymouth counties from 11 a.m. Thursday through 8 p.m. Friday, according to the National Weather Service.

Temperatures will begin to climb into the 90s in many communities on Wednesday before the advisory officially takes effect Thursday morning.

Heat index values from 95 to 104 degrees are expected on both Thursday and Friday afternoons across Southern New England except for the east slopes of the Berkshires and the immediate south coast. The worst of the conditions will be from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on both afternoons.

The NWS warned that hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur.

In an advisory, the NWS said, “Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 911.”

There is a potential for a heatwave in some places, including Framingham and Lowell.

With the intense comes another chance of extreme weather. Severe thunderstorms, downpours, wind damage, and flash flooding are possible Thursday.

For the latest on the forecast, visit the Boston 25 weather page.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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