Framingham Declares Heat Emergency, Opens Cooling Centers

News release from City of Framingham.

FRAMINGHAM, MA — The City of Framingham is activating three cooling centers, due to the extremely high temperatures and heat indexes.

The National Weather Service in Boston is forecasting a heat index of triple digits today, July 16, and tomorrow, July 17.

The dangerous heat and humidity comes with heat indices of 95 to 105 Fahrenheit.

The City of Framingham’s trio of cooling centers are the:

• Main Framingham Public Library at 49 Lexington Street – open until 9 p.m.
• Christa McAuliffe Library branch at 746 Water Street – open until 9 p.m.
• Callahan Center for seniors age 55 and older at 535 Union Avenue – open until 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 16 and open on Wednesday, July 17 and Thursday, July 18 until 4:30 p.m.

Due to the high heat and humidity, people should limit their outdoor activities, and those without air conditioning should consider visiting one of the City’s cooling centers.

“I’d like to thank the Library and the Callahan Center for opening their doors during this heat wave. This extreme heat can be dangerous,” said Framingham Fire Chief Michael Dutcher. “We want to make sure we protect ourselves and others from the heat. I’d like to remind people to avoid strenuous activities, if possible, especially during the peak sun hours of 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid direct sun.”

During extreme temperatures, heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can pose serious risks. It's crucial to take precautions:

• Never leave children or pets unattended in a closed vehicle, as interior temperatures can skyrocket rapidly.
• Avoid strenuous activities and pace yourself.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, preferably water.
• Dress in lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing to help stay cool.
• Limit sun exposure, especially during peak hours, and provide adequate shade for pets.
• Use sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Know the signs of heat stroke and dial 9-1-1 in emergencies. Click here for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

The City’s three beaches are open. They are Saxonville Beach, Learned Pond Beach and Lake Waushakum Beach. For additional information on the beaches visit -
www.framinghamma.gov/969/City-...

A cold front is expected to come into the region on Thursday, which is forecasted to lower the temperatures and humidity on Thursday.