Philadelphia is riding it’s fifth heat wave of Summer 2016 with hot and humid temperatures in the 90’s through the end of the week. Learn how to stay cool as the excessive heat will create hazardous conditions with Heat Index Values over 100 degrees at times. Weather conditions on Monday and Tuesday may also produce thunderstorms. Monitor severe weather and stay informed by signing up for ReadyPhiladelphia today, and also follow @PhilaOEM for updates.

Please be cautious over the next week and follow these stay cool (pdf) tips:

• Stay cool: Seek shade and air conditioning when available. Visit our interactive map of public swimming pools, spray grounds, and cooling centers. Cooling centers (pdf) are air conditioned facilities, such as libraries, community centers and senior centers that are open to the public.
• Stay hydrated: The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity can lead to dangerous heat illnesses. Drink fluids and stay in an air-conditioned room and out of the sun.
• Be a good neighbor: Older adults and those already in poor health are at risk – check on them frequently and open their windows if they do not have air conditioning. The Philadelphia Corporation for Aging activated its Heatline and has extended hours: Monday, August 15th from 8:30 a.m. to midnight and Tuesday, August 16th, from 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Call PCA at 215-765-9040. During extreme heat, if you see people who are homeless and suffering from the heat, please call the City’s outreach team (215) 232-1984.
• Look before you lock: Children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. During warm or hot weather car interiors can reach lethal temperatures. It takes only two minutes for a car to reach unsafe temperatures. After an hour, temperatures can reach over 120 degrees inside a vehicle.
• Limit time outdoors: If you work outside, take extra precautions. Heat stroke is a concern, and an emergency. 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. Highly urbanized areas, such as Philadelphia, do not see as much relief during excessive heat due to the amount of buildings and roads and lack of green spaces.
• Know the lightning safety 30/30 rule: If the time between when you see the flash and hear the thunder is 30 seconds or less, the lightning is close enough to hit you. If you haven’t already, seek shelter immediately. Wait inside until 30 minutes have passed since the last flash of lightning.

For information on heat-related illnesses, and available city services, read our news article on the Excessive Heat Warning.