BOSTON, MA (WBZ-AM) -- Brace yourselves, the summer heat and humidity is on and forecasters says it could last a week.
The National Weather Service is forecasting that heat and humidity will build across the region beginning Friday and that a heat wave is likely with three or more consecutive days of or at above 90-degrees.
With temperatures reaching high temps -- It's going to feel hot and sticky with a potential for scatters showers and thunderstorms.
There will be relief along the coast in part due to onshore sea-breezes they say. July 4th will offer some relief with temps expected to be in the high 80's
Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency have warned the public plan accordingly if you are going to spend some time outdoors to avoid outdoor heat and exposure of heat-related illnesses
They offer the following safety tips when it gets to be too hot.
- Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle. Even with the windows cracked open, interior temperatures can rise almost 20°F within 10 minutes.
- Slow down and avoid strenuous activity.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Light colors reflect heat and sunlight, and help maintain normal body temperature.
- Drink plenty of water — even if you are not thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine. If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink, ask how much you should drink during hot weather.
- Eat well-balanced, light, regular meals.
- Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. Do not leave pets outside for extended periods of time.
- If you must be outdoors, limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening hours. Try to rest often in shady areas so your body temperature will have a chance to recover. Use sunscreen with a high SPF and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
- If you do not have air conditioning, stay on your lowest floor, out of the sun. Use fans to stay cool and avoid using your stove and oven. Consider spending time in air-conditioned public spaces, such as schools, libraries, theaters, and other community facilities.
- Check with your local authorities or Call 2-1-1 to find locations of cooling centers or shelters near you.
- If there are power outages during warm weather, you may need to take additional precautions or go to a cooling center or emergency shelter to stay cool.
- Know the symptoms of and watch out for heat-related illnesses. Call 9-1-1 to report emergencies.
- Be a good neighbor. Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly, those who live alone, those with medical conditions, those who may need additional assistance, and those who may not have air conditioning.