Wu declares heat emergency in Boston through Wednesday

Weather

Mayor Michelle Wu announced a heat emergency spanning Monday through Wednesday would commence after forecasts of 95 degree to 96 degree heat. 

Boston will be under a heat emergency Monday through Wednesday, with temperatures of 95 degree to 96 degrees in the forecast, Mayor Michelle Wu announced Sunday evening.

The qualification for a heat emergency in Boston is two or more days with a heat index of 95 degrees, the City said in a press release Sunday. 

“Our leading priority is ensuring our residents and families are healthy and safe during this period of intense heat,” Wu said in the release. “We encourage all of our community members to please take care of yourselves, check on your neighbors, and be prepared to stay cool and safe.”

Signs of heat exhaustion include increased sweating, clammy skin, dizziness, nausea, and muscle aches, the mayor’s office said, and urged residents to call 911 immediately if symptoms persist.  

All Boston Centers for Youth & Families Cooling Centers are available during the heat emergency for people to utilize, Wu said in the release. She noted that Boston Public Library locations are also available for residents to cool down in. 

For individuals experiencing homelessness, Wu said the Boston Public Health Commission has emergency facilities at 112 Southampton St. for men and 794 Massachusetts Ave. for women. The shelters are air conditioned and open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

“Amnesty will be called at temperatures of 90 degrees or above, so those with non-violent restrictions can access shelter out of the heat,” the press release states. 

Wu’s announcement marks the third heat emergency in Boston this summer, the first from June 22 to 24 and the second from July 16 to18.

Chief of Emergency Preparedness Adrian Jordan advised residents to be “proactive” in protecting their health. 

“Stay well-hydrated, seek out air-conditioned environments when possible, and check in on elderly family members or neighbors who may need assistance,” Jordan said. “Reducing outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day can greatly reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.”