BLAIR COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) — National Weather Service Partners are warning residents of a significant, multi-day heat wave that will impact central PA from June 30 into Independence Day.
According to an AMED EMS Facebook post, a higher confidence in extreme heat is anticipated from July 1-3, with highs in the mid to upper 90s and heat indexes potentially exceeding 105 Fahrenheit.
Muggy, mild nighttime conditions are also expected, which will limit overnight heat relief. Hot and humid air masses associated with the heat could also lead to thunderstorms.
Storms could also be severe, although damaging winds remain the primary threat. A marginal risk (20%) for severe storms has already been issued for Tuesday, June 30.
AMED EMS also advised residents to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade, limit strenuous outdoor activities and check on the elderly, sick and those without air conditioning.
A Cambria County Emergency Management Agency also shared information on how to stay cool during the upcoming heatwave.
Similarly, Jefferson County Department of Emergency Services provided information on the heat wave and tips on how to stay safe.
For instance, residents should keep a close eye on children and the senior population and make sure not to leave pets in cars as they can overheat even with the windows cracked open.
They also advised that an excessive heat warning may be issued for Wednesday and Thursday as conditions worsen.
Altoona Fire Fighters IAFF Local 299 announced that they will be converting their building at 1813 6th Avenue into a cooling center June 30 through July 2 from 10 a.m. through 5 p.m.
Anyone in need of a place to stay can visit the center to remain cool and safe during the heatwave.
Likewise, Sykesville Fire Department announced that they will open a fire hydrant Wednesday, July 1 and Thursday, July 2, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. in front of the firehouse.
Anyone is invited to attend the event, which will also feature freeze pops and water balloons for kids, provided by 814 Home & Hardware, Mehoks Barbershop and The Sub Hub, respectively.
Elk Run Volunteer Fire Company announced that Fire Ladder 30 will be set up on the creek wall at the Civic Center from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday, June 29, to help cool off residents by raining down water.
This event could happen more nights throughout the week, depending on the outcome and volunteers’ schedules.
A Johnstown Firefighters, Local 463 Facebook post highlighted cooling centers that will be open throughout the week for residents to cool off.
Locations include the Cambria County Library from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., the Salvation Army, Vine St., from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the Senior Center from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The soup kitchen will also be open under normal operating hours.
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The Pennsylvania Department of Health also provided tips for residents on how to stay cool during the extreme heat.
Try to avoid activities during the hottest times of the day
Plan early morning or late evening workouts
Take it easy and pace yourself
Know the warning signs of heat-related illness.
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