Overview:
The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning for much of Massachusetts, including the North Quabbin Area, from Wednesday morning through Saturday night. The high on Thursday could approach 100°F, with a heat index again near 110. Several locations in Athol are available as cooling stations during regular hours of operation. Residents should take steps to reduce the risks of heat-related health problems, including minimizing time spent outdoors, applying sunscreen, staying hydrated, and checking in on neighbors.
ATHOL – The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for much of Massachusetts, including the North Quabbin Area, from Wednesday morning through Saturday night.
The National Weather Service stated that Wednesday highs will be in the mid to upper-90s, with heat index values up to 110°F due to high humidity. The high on Thursday could approach 100°F, with a heat index again near 110.
Highs on Friday will be in the upper 90s with an accompanying heat index between 100-110 F. Nighttime lows will offer little relief as temps will only drop into the low to mid-70s. With dewpoints in the 60s and 70s, the heat will feel oppressive.
A flyer provided by Town Manager Shaun Suhoski’s office indicates the following Athol locations are available as cooling stations during regular hours of operation: Athol Public Library at 568 Main St.; North Quabbin Chamber of Commerce and Athol Senior Center at 80 Freedom St. at Lord Pond Plaza;, North Quabbin Community Coalition at 251 Exchange St.; Valuing Our Children at 217 Walnut St; Athol Area YMCA at 545 Main St. and North Quabbin Recovery Center at 416 Main St.
As of Tuesday afternoon, June 30, the only location with plans to open on Saturday is the YMCA.
The Senior Center closes at 3 p.m. and will not be open on Friday or Saturday unless a directive is issued by the town manager’s office.
As temperatures climb, Health Agent Jane O’Brien said residents should use caution and take steps to reduce the risks of heat-related health problems. These include minimizing time spent outdoors, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Anyone working or playing outdoors should apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 no more than 15-20 minutes before going outside. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours. Protective clothing should be worn to avoid sunburn.
O’Brien also urged people to stay hydrated by drinking lots of cool water every 15-20 minutes. If involved in outdoor work or athletic activity, she said, people should take steps to replenish their electrolytes. O’Brien added that alcoholic or caffeinated beverages should be avoided.
Never leave children or pets in the car alone, as temperatures rise to dangerous levels within minutes. Do not leave pets outside for extended periods of time.
Anyone living in a home or apartment lacking air conditioning should seek out air-conditioned buildings like libraries and community centers.
O’Brien urges residents to check in on neighbors, especially those who are homebound, elderly, or disabled.
Dress for the heat by wearing a hat and light-colored, loose fitting, and breathable clothing and call 911 in an emergency.