STATUS OF THE STATE EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER - MONITORING

For Planning Purposes...

A strong High Pressure System continues to bring very hot and humid conditions to our area today.  At 8:30 AM temperatures across the state were in the low 80’s with heat indexes in the mid 80’s.  Some clouds this morning are expected to keep temperatures from reaching the record levels that occurred yesterday.  However, very humid air today combined with mostly sunny skies this afternoon and high temperatures near 100 F will likely push the heat index to near 104 F by 3:00 PM.  The NWS has issued a Heat Advisory for all of the State except for the coast.  In addition an Air Quality Alert is in effect for all of Southern CT and Hartford County.  These conditions may be hazardous for anyone working outside, especially any vulnerable populations (very old, very young and asthma sufferers).  Lows tonight are expected to remain in the 70’s with very humid conditions.

For Thursday, temperatures are expected to be in the low 90’s with high humidity and heat indexes around 95 - 100 F Thursday Afternoon. 

The attached graphic on page 2 shows the forecasted high temperatures for most of the state (away from the immediate coast) and the corresponding heat index values (apparent temperatures) for the next 2 days.  The heat index (a combination of the actual temperature and humidity) will likely reach the NWS Heat Advisory Threshold (Apparent Temperature = 100 F) this afternoon. 

Since heat index temperatures are defined in shady conditions, also included on the attached graphic is the apparent temperature in full sun conditions (sun symbol).  Anyone working out in full sun should take extra precautions to avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke. 

Tips for avoiding heat related illness:

• Slow down. Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated, or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day. Individuals at risk (very old, very young and persons who suffer from asthma) should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors.
• Dress for summer. Lightweight, light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight, and helps your body maintain normal temperatures.
• Drink plenty of water or non-alcoholic fluids. Your body needs water to keep cool. Drink plenty of fluids even if you don't feel thirsty.
• Do not drink alcoholic beverages.
• Spend more time in air-conditioned places. Air conditioning in homes and other buildings markedly reduces danger from the heat.
• Never leave persons, especially children, and pets in a closed, parked vehicle.
• Don't get too much sun. Sunburn makes the job of heat dissipation that much more difficult.

By the end of the week, temperatures are forecasted to moderate slightly as some clouds and showers move into our area Thursday afternoon through Friday.   The Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security will continue to monitor the latest forecasts and will issue another update on Thursday morning at 9:00 AM.

Sincerely,

Doug Glowacki

 

 

 

 

BOARD		OFFICERS:
Joyce Hart,  President		Earle Tyler, chief
Tom Barrett, Treasurer		Jim Vanicky, Asst Chief
John Miller, Secretary		Skip Kosciusko, Resc Captain