Cooling Centers Open As Howard County Officials Issue Heat Alert

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — In response to high temperatures forecast by the National Weather Service, the Howard County Health Department has issued a heat alert for Howard County. The alert will run from 12 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Aug. 1-2, with high temperatures expected to be in the mid- to-high 90s. The high humidity will make outside temperatures feel even hotter with heat index values reaching up to 109 degrees Fahrenheit.

Additionally, the Maryland Department of the Environment has issued a Code Orange air quality alert for Thursday for central and southeast Howard County. A Code Orange Air Quality Alert means that air pollution concentrations may be unhealthy for sensitive groups such as children, people suffering from asthma, heart disease or other lung diseases and the elderly. The effects of air pollution can be minimized by avoiding strenuous activity or exercise outdoors.

The county has opened cooling centers where residents can try to beat the heat. These can be found at Howard County community centers, 50+ Centers, or library branches during normal hours. Anyone in need of shelter or other assistance can call the Grassroots hotline at 410-531-6677.

The warning signs of heat-related illness include the following: light-headedness, headaches, muscle cramps, mild nausea or confusion, fatigue or profuse sweating and rapid breathing.

The following precautions offered by Howard County officials can help prevent heat-related illness:

• Never leave children or pets unattended in a parked car or other hot environment.
• If you must be out in the heat, wear light-colored, light-weight, loose-fitting clothing, a hat and sunscreen.
• Stay well hydrated. Drink water and caffeine-free liquids. Avoid alcoholic beverages.
• Stay out of the sun during the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Take frequent rest breaks in air conditioned or shaded environments.
• Check on elderly friends, family and neighbors. Be aware of the symptoms of heat related illness: extreme weakness, muscle cramps, nausea, headache, possible vomiting or fainting, dry red skin.

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