Marylanders try to beat the heat as temperatures near triple digits
Baltimore is under a Code Red extreme heat alert through Thursday, June 26, with temperatures reaching triple digits, bringing elevated humidity levels to Maryland.
The Code Red alert is activated during periods of extreme heat.
The alert allows the city to activate its cooling centers to help keep residents, particularly vulnerable adults, safe from heat illness.
BWI airport recorded temperatures of 98 degrees on Tuesday afternoon, two degrees shy of the 2010 record. Meanwhile, the Inner Harbor surpassed the century mark, peaking at 105 degrees.
Wednesday will also feature dangerous heat, but high temperatures should fall just shy of 100.
Baltimore area cooling centers
Baltimore City provided an interactive map of cooling centers online. A full list of the cooling centers is available HERE. Here's a list of cooling centers in Baltimore County, Howard County, and Anne Arundel County.
One of those cooling centers in Baltimore City is the Zeta Center for Adults in Northwest Baltimore, where the air conditioning is running and cold water bottles are free.
"While Baltimore really is no stranger to extreme heat, when extreme heat is declared, it really presents a serious public health risk, especially to our most vulnerable residents," said Blair Adams, with the Baltimore City health department.
Dangerous levels of heat and humidity will continue across Maryland through Wednesday, with highs close to 100 degrees.
"This really is our season, you know, of sustained heat, and again, we are no stranger, but as always, we're taking every step in precaution that's necessary to protect the residents," Adams said.
Governor declares state of preparedness
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore declared a state of preparedness due to this dangerous heatwave in Maryland.
A state of preparedness status is declared to coordinate preparation ahead of potential impacts from hazards or threats, according to the Governor's Office.
Finding ways to beat the heat
Other Baltimore-area residents jumped in the pools to cool off.
On Tuesday, temperatures were well into the mid-90s, and it will be another scorcher on Wednesday.
"We don't have central air, it is so hot," said Baltimore resident Markeitta. "We need to bring our kids to the pool to stay cool in this hot weather. It's ridiculous."
Symptoms of heat illness
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), symptoms of heat stroke can include dizziness, confusion, and fainting. If someone appears to be suffering from heat stroke, it's critical to call 911 immediately.
The NWS advises removing excess clothing, loosening garments, and using water or ice to help cool the person down.
Without proper treatment, heat stroke can cause permanent damage or even be fatal.
Signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, intense thirst, heavy sweating, nausea, and feeling weak. If you or someone else is showing these symptoms, move to a cooler place, loosen tight clothing, and slowly drink cool water.
If the condition doesn't improve, seek medical help, as heat exhaustion can progress into heat stroke.
Muscle cramps may also be an early warning sign of a heat-related illness.
Tips for heat safety
During extreme heat, the Baltimore City Health Department suggests staying well hydrated by drinking plenty of water while avoiding alcohol and caffeine.
Limiting outdoor activities and spending time in air-conditioned spaces can help reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Residents are also urged never to leave children or pets unattended in closed vehicles, even for a short time, as temperatures inside can rise dangerously fast.
Additionally, checking in on elderly or ill neighbors is encouraged, as they may need extra assistance coping with the heat.
