Everyone knew America’s 250th birthday celebration would be hot.
And tickets to Westport’s July 4th-ish fireworks are always a hot ticket.
But no one figured they’d both be this hot.
As several days of possible record-breaking heat and humidity cruise head toward town, our Emergency Management team urges residents to prepare.
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Watch, and Governor Ned Lamont activated Connecticut’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol effective tomorrow (Tuesday) through at least Sunday.
Heat index values — the “feels like” temperature that combines heat and humidity — could reach the upper 90s Wednesday, and soar to between 100 and 110 degrees Thursday and Friday. “Dangerously hot conditions” could continue through the Independence Day weekend.
Overnight temperatures will remain in the upper 70s and lower 80s, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses by limiting the body’s ability to recover.
“This prolonged stretch of dangerous heat poses a significant risk, particularly for older adults, young children, individuals with chronic medical conditions, and anyone without access to air conditioning,” says Chief Nicholas Marsan, Westport’s Emergency Management director.
“We encourage residents to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, check on family members and neighbors, and take advantage of the Town’s cooling centers if needed.”
Several cooling centers are available:
- Center for Senior Activities (21 Imperial Avenue): Tuesday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- Westport Library (20 Jesup Road): Tuesday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.
- Westport Weston Family YMCA (14 Allen Raymond Lane): Tuesday through Friday, 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (indoors), 10 a.m. to o4 p.m. (outdoors); Sunday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Residents needing transportation to a cooling center or additional assistance should call 211, or visit www.211ct.org.
Heat safety tips:
- Stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities between noon and 6 p.m., when temperatures are at their highest.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
- Never leave children, older adults or pets inside parked vehicles.
- Check on elderly neighbors, relatives, and anyone who may be vulnerable to extreme heat.
