Heat Advisory For Manchester On Day Of Independence Day Celebration

MANCHESTER, NH — Manchester officials are warning residents of safety protocols including those relating to extreme heat as its annual Independence Day Celebration is set to take place at Arms Park Thursday.

The city is under a heat advisory from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday. Concessions at Arms Park will be available beginning at 6 p.m. and a live band will begin playing under the Notre Dame Bridge starting at 6:30 p.m., officials said in a Thursday news release. Fireworks start at around 9:30 p.m.

Hot and humid conditions are forecasted with a heat index in the mid to upper 90s, according to the National Weather Service.

Manchester Fire Department will provide a misting station and be on site providing help for any individuals experiencing symptoms of heat-related illness, officials said.

City officials warned attendees to use caution as there is little shade at the venue.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature as the sweating mechanism fails, the agency said, adding that when heat stroke occurs, the body temperature can rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes.

The agency said that symptoms of heat stroke can include confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, hot, dry skin or profuse sweating, and seizures.

Young children and infants, older adults ages 65+, individuals with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, athletes, and outdoor workers are especially vulnerable to heat, Manchester officials added.

Officials are also reminding attendees that pets, alcohol, bicycles and skateboards are not allowed at Arms Park.