Ready PA Monthly - July 2025 |
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Heat is the top weather-related cause of death in the United States on average each year. Unlike storms or floods, heat hazards can develop quietly and often go unnoticed until it’s too late. While older adults and young children are most vulnerable, extreme heat affects everyone.
This summer has already brought extreme heat to Pennsylvania. In late June, Philadelphia reached 101 degrees, just one degree below the city's hottest June temperature on record, which was 102°F in 1934. A strong heat wave settled over much of the state, and the high humidity made it feel even hotter. Heat alerts were issued early to give people time to prepare.
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With more hot days expected in July, now is a great time to take simple steps to stay cool, safe, and ready.
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Here are some simple ways to stay cool and safe:
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- Stay Hydrated
Drink water frequently throughout the day. Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol, or lots of sugar — these can make dehydration worse. - Take a Break
If you're working or spending time outdoors, take regular breaks in the shade or, ideally, in air-conditioned spaces. - 10 to 3 - Not for Me
The hottest part of the day is typically between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Try to plan outdoor activities for earlier in the morning or later in the evening when it's cooler. - Knock & Talk
Check in on older adults, people with medical conditions and neighbors who may not have air conditioning. If they need help, offer to take them to a cooler place like a library, community center or shopping mall. -
Look Before You Lock
Always check the back seat of your car before locking it. Never leave children or pets in a parked car — even for a short time. Temperatures inside vehicles can rise to deadly levels within minutes.
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If Someone Becomes Sick from the Heat: Take Action Immediately!
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- Call 9-1-1 right away.
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Move the person to a cooler place.
- Use cool, damp cloths or ice packs (wrapped in cloth) to help lower their body temperature while waiting for help to arrive.
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👉 Extreme heat can happen quickly, and it can happen here. Stay prepared and help others stay safe by sharing these tips in your home and community. For more information and resources, visit here.
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Hot and humid weather can affect how you feel and how your body handles heat, especially if you are not prepared. With several heat waves already this summer and more on the way, it is important to understand what heat alerts mean.
What Is a Heat Wave?
A heat wave is a stretch of unusually hot and often humid weather. In Pennsylvania, the
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National Weather Service (NWS) defines a heat wave as three or more consecutive days with high temperatures of 90°F or above.
Why Does It Feel Hotter Than the Temperature?
When it is hot and humid, your body has a harder time cooling off. This is called the heat index; it shows what the temperature really “feels like” outside. A high heat index can make it easier to overheat, especially if you are active or not staying cool.
How Can Heat Affect Your Health?
There are several types of heat illness, and recognizing the symptoms early is key:
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- Heat Cramps. Painful muscle cramps caused by heavy sweating and loss of salt during physical activity.
- Heat Exhaustion. A serious condition marked by heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, or fainting. It requires prompt action to cool down and rehydrate.
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Heat Stroke. A life-threatening emergency where the body overheats and can no longer regulate temperature. Signs include a high body temperature (103°F or more), confusion, rapid pulse, and hot, dry skin. Call 9-1-1 immediately and begin cooling the person while waiting for help.
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What Do Heat Alerts Mean?
The National Weather Service issues different alerts based on forecasted conditions. Understanding them helps you prepare:
| - Heat Advisory: Issued when the heat index is expected to reach or exceed 100°F, but stay lower than 105°F.
- Extreme Heat Watch: Issued when the possibility of Extreme Heat Warning criteria may be met at longer ranges (12 to 48 hours out).
- Extreme Heat Warning: Issued when the heat index is expected to reach or exceed 105°F.
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In southeastern Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, Delaware, eastern Chester, southern Montgomery, and southern Bucks counties, heat alerts may be issued earlier or at lower temperatures than in other areas. This is because the NWS Mt. Holly office uses a system called “Kalkstein procedures,” that factors in the time of year and how well people have adjusted to the heat.
Share this information with your friends, family and neighbors. For more tips, visit here.
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In Pennsylvania, being ready means staying informed. The easiest way to do that is by signing up for CodeRED alerts.
Why It Matters?
CodeRED will notify you about severe weather, public health emergencies, and building alerts.
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A CodeRED weather warning will automatically alert you if your address falls in the path of severe weather, as determined by the National Weather Service. Visit here to enroll today.
How to Get Started:
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- Visit the "Sign Up for Emergency Alerts” section on the Ready PA website.
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Click "Enroll Today."
- Create an account.
- Enter your home and/or work address.
- Choose how you want to receive alerts: phone call, text or email.
- Choose what alerts you would like to receive.
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Receive alerts you care about—opt in for weather warnings or skip others. If you move or no longer wish to receive alerts, you can easily opt out here.
Don't Forget to Check Your Phone's Emergency Alerts!
Wireless Emergency Alerts, also known as WEAs, are loud notifications that pop up on your phone during an emergency. They’re built into most smartphones, but they can sometimes be turned off by mistake. Take a quick minute to check your phone settings and make sure they are turned on. It’s a simple step that could make a big difference!
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