Extreme Heat Warning. Read more…

Current Risk Alert

June 21, 2025

The National Weather Service issued an Extreme Heat Warning in effect from 11am Sunday, June 22, to 8pm Tuesday, June 24. Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 110 degrees are expected for much of southern New England, except for the Berkshires, Cape Code and the Islands.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, heat kills over 1,000 people on average yearly in the United States — more than tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, lightning, or any other weather event combined.

The EPA reports that heat-related deaths reached new highs in 2021 and 2022, which were two of the hottest years on record in the contiguous 48 states and featured several notable heat waves. (Statistics for 2023 and 2024 have not yet been released.)

We urge you to be mindful of the heat index in the coming days. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and injuries, but everyone should do the following:

  • Listen to the news and public announcements for heat advisories.
  • Limit outdoor activities, especially between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
  • Drink plenty of fluids, preferably drinks with electrolytes. If your doctor generally limits the amount of liquid you drink or you are taking water pills, consult with your physical about how much you should drink while the weather is hot.
  • Avoid beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol.
  • Avoid using the stove or oven.
  • Wear loose, light-colored clothing.
  • Do not stay in the hot weather if you feel sick.
  • Do not leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle.
  • If you must be outside, adjust to your environment, limiting your outdoor activity until you become accustomed to the heat.
  • Take frequent breaks in shaded areas.

Be mindful of employees and volunteers. If the air conditioning system is not working properly at your parish or institution, please consider having your staff work from home. If possible, try to postpone outdoor duties such as painting or landscaping until the heat wave breaks. If your parish or school is hosting summer activities for children, limit the time children spend outdoors, try to find shady areas for them to play or rest in, and be sure they have applied sunscreen and are taking frequent water breaks.

Heat-Related Emergencies

Signs of a heat stroke:

  • Victim is often confused and disorientated.
  • Skin is often hot, red and dry.
  • Body temperature is very high.

What to do if you suspect heat stroke:

  • CALL 911 immediately.
  • Move victim to a cool location out of the heat.
  • Place him/her in front of a fan or in an air-conditioned room.
  • Place ice packs under armpits and groin.
  • DO NOT give the victim ANYTHING to eat or drink!

Signs of heat exhaustion:

  • Skin is cool, pale and moist.
  • Body temperature is near normal.
  • Victim is sweating heavily.
  • Victim experiences headache, nausea, dizziness or vomiting.

What to do if you suspect heat exhaustion:

  • CALL 911 immediately.
  • Move victim to a cool location out of the heat.
  • Lay victim on his or her back and elevate legs.
  • Remove/loosen clothing.
  • Cool victim by fanning or applying cold packs, wet sheets or towels.

Those Most at Risk

  • Infants and children up to four years of age are sensitive to the effects of high temperatures and rely on others to regulate their environments and provide adequate liquids.
  • People 65 years of age and older may not compensate for heat stress efficiently and are less likely to sense and respond to changes in temperature.
  • The unhoused can become dehydrated rapidly due to a lack of ready access to water or shelter from the heat.
  • People who are overweight may be prone to heat sickness because of their tendency to retain more body heat.
  • People who overexert during work or exercise may become dehydrated and susceptible to heat sickness.
  • People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation, may be affected by extreme heat.

Plan to check on family, friends, and neighbors – especially the elderly – who do not have air conditioning or who spend much of their time alone. Call 2-1-1 to find locations of cooling centers or shelters near you, or go to: http://www.cityofboston.gov/heat/