Brace Yourselves for Three-Digit Temps in Philly

Photo via M. Fischetti for VISIT PHILADELPHIA™

The dog days of summer are here, and the city is firmly in the grips of more extreme heat — as if we didn’t hate it enough already.

Now on the fourth day of over 90 degree temps, the city wants you to know we will get through this together: Along with a heat advisory issued by the National Weather Service, which is in effect until 6 p.m. Wednesday, the Office of Homeless Services is extending the warning until 8 p.m. and is providing tips and guidelines for you to keep cool — and keep your cool. They’re also taking special measures to keep the homeless safe, and ask if you see someone who needs help, to call (215) 232-1984.

If you usually go sans-air conditioning and now rue your hubris, cooling centers are also staying open later. You can find the one nearest to you on this handy map — or consider cooling off at a sprayground.

August 7, 1918 Life in Philly 100yrs ago. Brutal heatwave continues temp to reach 106°, hottest day in city history. Shipyards & businesses shutdown. People taking to rivers and pools for relief. Gov. agents trap slackers at boxing match https://t.co/0wAEfpCJuz #Philadelphia #WWI pic.twitter.com/pb54Gz6qFC

— Peter Williams (@PhillyWWIYears) August 7, 2018

If you or someone you know is in the grips of a heat-related health emergency, dial the city’s “Heatline” at (215) 765-9040.

Avoid working outdoors between the worst of it (between noon and 5 p.m.), the city suggests, though that might not be an option for most laborers. If you are stuck outside today, keep hydrated and find time for breaks in the shade.

And a few tips for everyone: Slow down, use drapes or shades to reduce the heat coming in through the windows, ditch the fitted jeans for looser clothing, keep hydrated, and avoid caffeine or alcohol. And, as always during extreme weather, ensure your pets and elderly neighbors are safe and comfortable.