How to keep cool in Pittsburgh as a ‘heat dome’ blazes across much of the country

PITTSBURGH — Fans and air conditioners will be humming again tomorrow and Wednesday as temperatures continue to climb.

Highs will climb near 90 degrees, above the average of 83 for this time of the year.

For much of the country though, it will be even hotter.

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A “heat dome” is setting up across much of the central and southern parts of the U.S., with temperatures expected to reach dangerous levels.

Heat advisories have been issued for many areas from North Dakota to Louisiana, with heat index values expected to top 100 degrees.

Here are a few safety tips to stay cool:

• Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device. Fans create air flow and a false sense of comfort, but do not reduce body temperature or prevent heat-related illnesses.
• Identify places in your community where you can go to get cool such as libraries and shopping malls or contact your local health department to find a cooling center in your area.
• Cover windows with drapes or shades.
• Weather-strip doors and windows.
• Use window reflectors specifically designed to reflect heat back outside.
• Never leave people or pets in a closed car on a warm day.
• If air conditioning is not available in your home go to a cooling center.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Use your oven less to help reduce the temperature in your home.
• If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

You can learn more about safety measures by clicking here.

Local temperatures will settle back to more comfortable levels by the end of the week.

For more on the “heat dome,” check out this link from NOAA.

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