Heat Alert Issued For Howard County Friday: Here's Where To Stay Cool

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — In response to high temperatures forecast by the National Weather Service, the Howard County Health Department has issued a heat alert for Friday that will last until 8 p.m. Friday.

High temperatures expected to be in the low- to mid-90s combined with high humidity will make outside temperatures feel even hotter with health index values reaching up to 109 degrees Fahrenheit, county health officials said. High temperatures and high humidity could cause heat illness, they added.

The warning signs of heat-related illness include the following symptoms: light-headedness, headaches, muscle cramps, mild nausea or confusion, fatigue or profuse sweating and rapid breathing.

Howard County residents in need of a cooler environment can visit one of Howard County’s Community Centers, 50+ Centers or library branches during normal hours.

Howard County Library System branches

• Central Branch: 10375 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia
• East Columbia Branch: 6600 Cradlerock Way, Columbia
• Miller Branch: 9421 Frederick Road, Ellicott City
• Savage Branch: 9525 Durness Lane, Laurel
• Elkridge Branch: 6540 Washington Blvd., Elkridge
• Glenwood Branch: 2350 Maryland Route 97, Cooksville

Howard County Recreation and Parks Community Centers

• Gary J. Arthur Community Center: 2400 Maryland Route 97, Cooksville (410-313-4840)
• North Laurel Community Center: 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road, Laurel (410-313-0390)
• Roger Carter Community Center: 3000 Milltowne Drive, Ellicott City (410-313-2764)
• Robinson Nature Center: 6692 Cedar Lane, Columbia (410-313-0400)
• Kiwanis-Wallas Hall: 3300 Norberts Way, Ellicott City (410-313-2637)

Howard County officials recommended residents take the following precautions to prevent heat related illness:

• Never leave children or pets unattended in a parked car or other hot environment.
• If you must be out in the heat, wear light-colored, light-weight, loose-fitting clothing, a hat and sunscreen.
• Stay well hydrated. Drink water and caffeine-free liquids. Avoid alcoholic beverages. (Alcoholic beverages do not keep you hydrated.)
• Stay out of the sun during the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Take frequent rest breaks in air conditioned or shaded environments.
• Check on elderly friends, family and neighbors. Be aware of the symptoms of heat related illness: extreme weakness, muscle cramps, nausea, headache, possible vomiting or fainting, dry red skin.