AUGUSTA, MAINE — Maine is forecast to experience temperatures above 90 in most locations tomorrow with widespread 90s on Wednesday and Thursday, possibly lasting into Friday. The National Weather Service offices in Gray and Caribou report that the heat index, which expresses the combined impacts of heat and humidity, is expected to rise above 95 for many locations tomorrow, and possibly reach the low 100s on Wednesday and Thursday for some locations. Temperatures are expected to fall only into the 70s at night, offering little relief. Prolonged heat could lead to cumulative impacts through the week as heat builds.
“Everyone needs to have a plan for keeping cool this week,” said MEMA Director Pete Rogers. “Limit outdoor activities and take breaks. If you are outside, seek shade or shelter whenever possible and stay hydrated.”
Even though we do not get many days of extreme heat in Maine, heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable. The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) recommends the following tips to protect yourself, loved ones, and neighbors during periods of high heat:
Keep cool inside: Use air conditioning in your home, or go to an air-conditioned public place like a store, public library, restaurant, or cooling center. If you can’t access air conditioning, take frequent cool showers or baths. Cool your home by closing windows and shades during the day and opening them back up at night.
Keep cool outside: If you have to be outdoors, stay out of the sun as much as possible (or shift your activities to the early morning or evening, as long as the air quality is good), take frequent breaks from activity, and wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing, a hat, and sunscreen.
Stay hydrated: Drink more fluids than usual, even if you don’t feel thirsty, and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks if possible. Check with your doctor first if you take water pills or diuretics.
Know the symptoms: Monitor yourself and those around you. Seek medical care if anyone experiences symptoms like muscle cramps, very heavy sweating, shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, confusion, weakness, or nausea.
Recognize your risk: Check the U.S. CDC HeatRisk page to see the heat forecast for your area, and learn what to do if you or someone you care for is more at risk from extreme heat.
Check on your family, neighbors, and friends: Be sure to check in on those around you who live alone, who don’t have air conditioning, or who might otherwise need assistance.
Cooling Centers may open in communities around the state. These facilities are operated at the local level and should report their location and hours of operation to their County Emergency Management Agency. Please visit MEMA’s website to find a Cooling Center near you: https://www.maine.gov/mema/response-recovery/mass-care. You may also dial 211 (or 1-866-811-5695) or text your zip code to 898-211 for a list of Cooling Center locations, or contact your local town office, fire, or police department.
