Hot temperatures combined with high humidity levels are expected to create dangerous heat conditions, with the most oppressive conditions expected Saturday.
High temperatures Friday-Sunday are forecast to be in the 90s to lower 100s, and dew points in the low to mid 70s. Heat index values are expected to reach the mid to upper 90s Friday, 100 to 110 Saturday, and 97 to 105 Sunday, with the highest values occurring on Saturday in eastern Massachusetts and parts of the Connecticut River valley.
The Region 1 HMCC is monitoring the situation and remains available to assist healthcare and public health systems partners as needed. Links and resources pertaining to general excessive heat safety and awareness will be posted below.
Cooling Centers
Cities and towns planning to open cooling centers are asked to share this information with their MEMA Regional office or MEMA’s 24/7 communications center at 508-820-2000, or post the information directly into WebEOC. Mass211 will utilize information posted on WebEOC to share with the public.
EMS Waivers
The Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS) has issued an alternate transport waiver allowing all licensed ambulance services to transport individuals who have contacted 911 to shelters or identified cooling centers in response to the current weather conditions. The waiver is effective 8:00 a.m. Friday July 19th through 8 a.m. Monday July 21st.