Sweltering Temps Shatter Heat Record in Boston

By PATRICK LUCE

Tuesday is officially the hottest Sept. 8 on record in the City of Boston.

Temperatures at Logan Airport reached 96 degrees just after 2 p.m. Tuesday, breaking the previous record high of 95 for this date, the National Weather Service reports.

The extreme heat is expected to last through tomorrow, with high temperatures in the mid-90s Wednesday. Relief is in site for Thursday, with highs expected to be only in the 80s, followed by the mid-70s on Friday and through the weekend.

Boston Mayor Marty Walsh has issued a heat advisory, urging residents to take precautions to avoid overheating.

Boston Centers for Youth & Families operates 17 pools and one beach for families looking to cool off in the summer heat. To find the pool or beach nearest you, click here.

Some area school districts, including Lawrence, are considering canceling classes Wednesday in response to the heat. Boston schools have not yet announced any cancelations.

The city is offering the following safety tips to beat the heat:

• Adults and children should use sunscreen containing an SPF-15 or higher and wear protective, loose fitting clothing, including long sleeve shirts and hats.
• The elderly, young children and those with chronic medical conditions are more susceptible to the effects of heat.

• Always check in on family or neighbors who may be at risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke as temperatures climb.

• Children and pets should never be left alone in vehicles, even for short periods of times.

• If you become lightheaded, confused, weak or faint, stop all activity and immediately find shade or a cool area to rest. If symptoms persist, call 911 immediately.

• Limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. Rest often in shady areas and be extra cautious from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., when the sun’s UV radiation is strongest. Drink plenty of fluids regardless of activity level. Avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine.

• Homeless individuals can become dehydrated rapidly due to a lack of access to water or shelter from the heat. If you observe someone who appears in distress, call 911 immediately.

• If you have a child in your home, use child window guards in addition to screens on any open window on the second story or above. Falls are the leading cause of injury for children under the age of six. Information about low-cost window guards for Boston residents can be found here.

• Secure all window air conditioner units according to the manufacturer’s specifications.