Dangerous Heat Looms, Montco Issues Code Red Warning

NORRISTOWN, PA — Montgomery County has declared a code red hot weather emergency for Friday as a new weather front moves into the region.

The heat index will rise up to 106 Friday, with temperatures in the upper 90s. It's more than enough to cause severe distress, illness, and even death, particularly in sensitive groups.

The declaration, which allows the county to marshal additional resources like cooling centers, will be in place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The following cooling centers will be open:

• Montco Senior Adult Activities Center, 526 George Street, Norristown
• Pottstown Regional Public Library, 500 East High Street, Pottstown
• TriCounty Active Adult Center, 288 Moser Road, Pottstown

To stay cool, officials offer the following tips:

• Use air conditioners. If necessary, go to an air-conditioned location for several hours during the hottest parts of the day.
• If using a fan, be sure to open windows to release trapped hot air.
• Drink plenty of liquids, especially water, to prevent dehydration. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Never leave older people, children, or pets alone in cars.
• Those taking regular medication should consult with their physician. Some medications cause an adverse reaction in hot weather.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Avoid, as much as possible, working or playing in the hot sun or other hot areas, especially during the sun’s peak hours of 11 a.m. through 4 p.m.
• Maintain a normal diet.
• Cover all exposed skin with an SPF sunscreen (15 or above). Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and head. Apply sunscreen under your mask to protect your face.

Those at higher risk of heat stress include:

• People who do not have or use air conditioning
• Older adults
• People with chronic medical conditions
• Pregnant women
• Infants and young children
• Those who work in high heat environments
• Athletes
• Those who take certain medications that disrupt the regulation of body temperature
• Those who use alcohol or drugs
• Individuals engaged in any strenuous physical activity