Officials are urging caution after two men died Tuesday in Lehigh County from extreme heat conditions.
The men, ages 76 and 78, died in their homes Tuesday night from hyperthermia after they were exposed to extreme heat conditions while high temperatures reached into the mid-90s, according to Lehigh County Coroner Daniel A. Buglio. One man was from Washington Township and the other was from Allentown.
The coroner said he believed the public should know about the deaths because they should be aware of the dangers associated with extreme heat ahead of the upcoming summer months.
“Each year, heat-related illnesses and deaths occur, some of which are preventable,” Buglio said in a statement. “Please check on vulnerable family members, friends, and neighbors, stay hydrated, and ensure living spaces remain adequately cooled. A simple phone call, visit, or welfare check can make a significant difference and may save a life.”
High temperatures reached 94 Monday and Tuesday in the Lehigh Valley, and are expected to reach into the 90s again Wednesday.
Temperatures will drop into the 60s and 50s over the next few days before reaching the 70s early next week. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said temperatures will likely be above normal over the next two weeks.