With temperatures in the high 80s and 90s this week, when will our area see some relief from the heat?
According to Accuweather Senior Meteorologist Paul Walker, temperatures in the area this week are “much warmer than you would expect for the middle of June.”
Walker said normal temperatures for the area this time of year are typically in the low 80s, “So we are talking about temperatures running 10-to-15 degrees above normal,” he said.
When speaking with Walker around 1:30 p.m. Thursday, he said the expected high for the day could reach 94, with 95 being the current record-temperature for June 16.
The weekend may offer some relief from the heat. A cool-down should start today with a projected high of 86, followed by temperatures in the low 70s on Saturday and Sunday.
Even with the cooler weather on the way, it’s important to be aware of the heat, particularly when caring for older family members or neighbors.
The Alzheimer’s Association West Virginia Chapter offered several tips for caregivers and families facing Alzheimer’s and other dementias in a recent press release.
The association suggests making a plan to check on people living with Alzheimer’s and arrange alternative plans for cooler spaces if air conditioning is unavailable, as well as preparing for behavioral changes as heat can increase agitation and confusion in people.
Staying hydrated, staying indoors and out of the sun, and staying informed of local weather forecasts are also good ways to ensure safety during hot days, the release said.
At this time, Monongalia County has not opened any public cooling centers, according to Monongalia County Emergency Management Agency Director Jimmy Smith and the 911 center has not received any heat related calls he was aware of.
Those in need of relief from the heat are encouraged to go to public places with air conditioning, like malls or libraries.
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