Heatwave Broke MA Records For Emergency Service Calls

BOSTON — Not only did last weekend's heatwave break records in temperatures across Massachusetts - it broke records in emergency service calls as well.

A spokesperson from Boston Emergency Medical Services said from Wednesday, July 19, through Monday, July 25, the agency experienced over 400 incidents each day, seeing a 20 percent increase from average daily calls.

Boston EMS sent out a tweet Sunday saying that the agency responded to more than 80 incidents directly related to the heat.

With the heat came the use of more electricity, which created a problem for those who lost their power. Rolling blackouts in Boston's Dorchester neighborhood left thousands of people stuck in the heat - which also caused a problem as high temperatures have the potential to exacerbate illnesses and cause dehydration and heat stroke.

Excessive heat can be dangerous, making it hard for the body to cool itself down and potentially causing a rapid pulse, nausea, or even loss of consciousness.

The Boston Triathlon was originally scheduled for Sunday but was postponed to late August "due to the current Heat Emergency."

According to AccuWeather, the heat index in Boston reached 100 on Sunday - but hung around, retaining at about 90 degrees Monday, prompting Boston Mayor Michelle Wu to extend the heat emergency a second time, blaming the rising temperatures on climate change.

By Monday, Boston had seen its seventh straight day with temperatures above 90 degrees, the second-longest span in the city's history, officials said.

To combat potential incidents related to heat, Boston EMS says they will bring out two additional ambulances just for heat-related emergencies.

Now we get to enjoy the few mid-80 days we're expected to have until early next week when AccuWeather says temperatures in Boston are expected to exceed 90 degrees again starting Tuesday.