Summer is here
Jun. 30—A heat advisory is in effect for southeastern Connecticut through Wednesday evening, with temperatures expected to hit highs of 91 degrees on the shoreline and up to 95 degrees inland.
The heat index — what the heat actually feels like combined with the humidity— may climb as high as 104 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. Temperatures that high put people at risk for heat-related illnesses, like heat stroke, heat cramps and heat exhaustion.
The heat advisory, issued by the weather service, will be in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday.
The weather service has also issued an Air Quality Alert for Northern New London County and Hazardous Weather Outlook warning, cautioning residents that if the heat index peaks over 105 degrees, the region will be under an Excessive Heat Warning.
On Tuesday, the shoreline is expected to experience a heat index high of 96 degrees in New London, while areas such as Norwich may feel heat as high as 102 Wednesday.
Anyone without air conditioning in their home is advised to go to a place that has air conditioning to stay cool, according to the weather service.
Seniors with chronic health problems or mental health conditions are at increased risk for medical emergencies during heat waves, as are people who are working outdoors. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent breaks for outdoor workers and suggests anyone overcome by heat move to a cool and shaded location.
Jason Przekop of Preston, who was working outside on State Street in New London on Tuesday morning, said he often climbs into his work truck to cool off during his shift. The HVAC technician said he plugs in a fan in the back of his truck and sits in front of it to cool down.
About 10 a.m. Tuesday, when the heat index was about 81, Przekop was unloading two large air conditioners to install in an apartment building near 150 State St. Przekop, who works for Duncklee Cooling and Heating Inc. in Stonington, said they were working to get the cooling devices installed quickly for residents of the apartment building.
He said the air conditioners, which provide central air to about six apartments, needed to be replaced after another set of air conditioners failed on a hot day last month.
Getting hold of air conditioning equipment, he said, has been a struggle since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"It seems like we're starting to turn a corner now and things are available again," he said. "But their cooling broke during the last hot day and everything has been difficult to get."
To stay cool while helping others keep their homes cool, Przekop said he planned to take breaks when needed and stay hydrated to beat the heat.
"It stinks to be out here, I plan to drink a lot of water and crank the AC when I'm driving," he said.
The American Red Cross on their website provides a list of ways to stay safe during a heat wave, like keeping yourself and your pets hydrated throughout the day. It's a good idea to leave your pet's water bowl in a shaded area, the organization said.
The Red Cross also suggests people use sports drinks and snacks to replace the salt and minerals they lose through sweat and avoid sugary, caffeinated or alcoholic drinks.
People should also avoid leaving pets, children or older adults in unattended vehicles for any period of time and should check in often with loved ones who are elderly or have disabilities or medical conditions.
Whenever possible, people should stay indoors with air-conditioning and avoid using fans, which can actually increase indoor air temperature. People are advised to limit exercise, avoid using their stoves and ovens and wear sunscreen when outdoors.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke should seek immediate medical attention, the Red Cross said.
