Heat Wave Press Release

Press Release

July 16, 2020

Heat Wave

(EAST HAVEN) July 16, 2020 — Mayor Joseph Carfora, the Mayor of East Haven, warned the Town of a significant heat wave expected to arrive this weekend and last into early next week.

Carfora said, “Temperatures are expected to reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit starting Saturday and remain in the low 90’s, but with extreme humidity. As a result, we anticipate that the National Weather Service may issue a heat advisory. The peak of the heat wave is expected on Monday and combined with the anticipated high humidity the heat index may reach as high as 105 degrees F Monday afternoon. Given the excessive conditions, the NWS may also issue an excessive heat warning Monday afternoon for parts of the state and continuing until Tuesday. Our Emergency Management Team will be monitoring these warnings throughout the event.”

“As of now we have not opened our cooling center at the East Haven Senior Center, but should the need arise it can be promptly activated for those that need to seek shelter. Social Distancing will impact capacity,” Fire Chief Matt Marcarelli said in the release.

“Seniors and those on certain medications can be severely impacted by the heat and should make every attempt to stay indoors and take advantage of air condition and maintain hydration during the event,” Marcarelli said.

Tips for staying cool:

• Drink more fluids (non-alcoholic) regardless of your activity level — don’t wait until you’re thirsty.

• Avoid caffeinated, alcoholic and sugary beverages, as these liquids actually cause you to lose fluid and can lead to dehydration. Also avoid extremely cold drinks, which can lead to stomach cramps.

• Stay indoors during the warmest hours of the day, and, if possible, in an air-conditioned space.

• When you are outdoors, wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to deflect the sun’s harmful rays.

• Limit outdoor exercise. If you must exercise outdoors, remember to stay hydrated by drinking two to four glasses of cool fluids each hour.

• Pay attention to weather reports. You are more at risk as the temperature or humidity rises, and when there’s an air-pollution alert in effect.

• Avoid hot foods and heavy meals — they add heat to the body.

• Never leave anyone (or any animal) in a closed, parked vehicle without air-conditioning.

Questions or additional information related to this release should be directed to the Mayor’s Office at (203) 468-3205.