Pittsburgh is preparing for an extreme heat wave that could bring record-breaking temperatures in the coming days, as the National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat watch from Sunday morning through Wednesday evening.
The highest temperatures are projected for Monday and Tuesday, with the forecast indicating readings in the mid to upper 90s.
When taking high humidity into account, it is expected to feel like 100 degrees or more, prompting local authorities to activate their first-ever Code Red Heat Advisory in Allegheny County.
The Code Red initiative is aimed at collaborating with senior centers and shelters to provide extended hours of relief from the oppressive heat.
Cooling centers will be open to people of all ages, ensuring residents have a safe place to escape the high temperatures.
Erin Dalton, the director of the county’s Department of Human Services, emphasized the county’s systematic approach to managing emergencies.
“Senior centers will now more consistently extend their hours on Code Red days, and we’ll be assessing conditions to potentially expand overnight shelter when extreme heat persists into the night,” said Dalton.
This pilot program seeks to enhance how the county protects its vulnerable populations during extreme weather events.
People can find a list of open cooling centers on the county’s designated website.
Meteorologist Fred McMullen from the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh mentioned that several long-standing temperature records may be challenged during this heat wave.
He noted that Monday’s forecast could potentially break Pittsburgh’s historical record of 95 degrees, which has stood since 1894.
With overnight lows expected to linger in the low to mid-70s, there is also the possibility of surpassing the record for the highest minimum daily temperature, which was set in 1884 at 72 degrees.
McMullen advised residents to check on elderly neighbors and relatives who may not have air conditioning.
He pointed out that prolonged periods of elevated nighttime temperatures can significantly affect health, often resulting in increased visits to emergency rooms.
To stay safe during the extreme heat, McMullen recommended wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun.
Additionally, the National Weather Service warned that the inside of cars can reach dangerous temperatures within minutes during the heat wave, making it crucial to never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.
Moreover, the state Department of Environmental Protection has announced a Code Orange Air Quality Action Day for ozone on Sunday and Monday for the Southwest Pennsylvania region.
High ozone levels typically occur during the summer months and are exacerbated by vehicle emissions and industrial activity.
During these ozone action days, young children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory issues are particularly at risk and should limit outdoor activities.
To mitigate ozone levels, residents are encouraged to reduce vehicle use by carpooling or utilizing public transportation, limit engine idling, and conserve electricity whenever possible.
Pa. Public Utility Commission offers various tips to residents on staying cool amidst the heat, including using fans instead of lowering the thermostat, closing curtains or blinds to shade rooms, and postponing the use of appliances that generate heat until the cooler evening hours.
Using outdoor grills and microwaves instead of ovens can also help decrease indoor temperatures.
Duquesne Light is urging its customers to prepare not only for the heat but also for potential power outages caused by the strain high temperatures can put on the electrical grid.
The utility company plans to bolster its staffing to promptly address any outages and encourages consumers to report issues via DuquesneLight.com or by calling 888-393-7100.
To ensure they have a plan in place in case of power loss, customers should fully charge cell phones and other vital devices, prepare ice packs, and keep refrigerator doors closed to maintain food safety.
For those concerned about rising electric bills as they try to stay cool, Duquesne Light advises setting thermostats to 78 degrees during peak hours from 2 to 6 p.m.
Residents can also lower their electricity costs by unplugging devices that are not in use and closing doors to unused rooms.
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