Maryland is bracing for a significant heat wave, with nearly the entire state under a heat advisory starting at 11 a.m. on Wednesday. The National Weather Service forecasts that temperatures could reach 100 degrees, but the humidity may make it feel as hot as 108 degrees.
As the Independence Day weekend approaches, conditions are expected to worsen, particularly on Thursday, when the heat index in Baltimore could rise to 113 degrees. The heat advisory set for Wednesday is likely to escalate into an Extreme Heat Watch by Thursday and Friday.
In response to the impending heat, Governor Wes Moore declared a State of Preparedness on Tuesday, enabling the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) to mobilize resources. Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott has also issued a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert, effective from Wednesday through Saturday.
Dr. Louis Piper, an emergency physician at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center, reported an increase in heat-related illnesses among patients, particularly those engaged in outdoor activities and neglecting hydration. He warns that the situation may worsen as crowds gather for holiday celebrations.
Safety Tips for the Heat
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious risks during extreme heat. To stay safe, individuals are advised to:
- Stay hydrated, especially when consuming alcohol, and drink water before feeling thirsty.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing.
- Utilize cooling methods like spray bottles or handheld fans.
If experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, muscle cramps, or nausea, it is crucial to seek air conditioning and medical attention if symptoms worsen.
City and State Preparedness
During extreme heat events, MDEM collaborates with the Department of Health to manage outreach efforts and resource deployment. Baltimore's cooling centers will be operational from Wednesday through Saturday, and all city pools will extend their hours through the holiday weekend.
City officials have also suspended outdoor athletic programming and adjusted sanitation services to prioritize trash collection amid the heat wave. A comprehensive list of cooling centers across Maryland is accessible on the state Department of Health's website.
Reported by HarborBeat based on The Baltimore Banner (source).
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