Boston declared a heat emergency in the city Tuesday through Thursday as the region gets hit with a heat wave in a long hot spell that's expected to stretch into the weekend.
This will be the first heat wave -- three straight days of 90+ degree heat -- for many this season. Our weather team issued a First Alert for Thursday, when highs will peak in the mid and upper 90s, marking the hottest day of the year and of this hot spell.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu issued the emergency declaration Monday, opening cooling centers at a dozen Boston Centers for Youth & Families community centers.
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See more information on the city's heat emergency, including the list of cooling centers and where the city's splash pads are, at boston.gov/heat.
"We're working quickly to make sure all of our Boston residents and families are protected during this week's extreme weather," Wu said in a release, noting the risk that climate change presents to people in Boston.
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Highs in the 90s are forecast in New England through the week, with more humid air -- especially Thursday when heat index values may be in the 100 to 105 range. Our weather team has issued a First Alert for that day.
Experts urge people to stay hydrated, use sunscreen and limit outdoor activity in this type of heat.
Officials say precautions should be taken in the high heat, including:
- Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
- Heat stroke is an emergency. Call 911
- Wear light clothing
- Schedule frequent rest breaks in the shade during outdoor work
This kind of weather makes for a beautiful day at the beach, though, as people look to cool off. Indeed it was a busy day on Revere Beach with people enjoying the boulevard, the water and getting ready for this weekend's sand castle competition.
Sculptors are preparing for the sand castle competition, and many will be showing up Wednesday morning before 8 a.m. to begin their work before it gets too hot.
State police have extra patrols on hand due to the large crowds and high temperatures this week. Heightened police presence can be seen on state beaches including Revere and Carson.
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