Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Urges Residents and Visitors to Take Precautions Ahead of Dangerous Heat

Boston —  Due to the extreme heat expected to impact Massachusetts ahead of the busy holiday weekend, the Healey-Driscoll Administration urges residents and visitors to plan ahead and take steps to prevent heat-related illness. 

The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for most of the state from Wednesday morning through Saturday evening. Heat index values could reach up to 110 degrees, especially in urban areas. These hot and humid conditions may increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. 

"We're expecting dangerously high temperatures across Massachusetts over the next several days, and I want everyone to take this heat seriously," said Governor Maura Healey. "Whether you're celebrating the Fourth of July, traveling, or spending time outdoors with family and friends, please plan ahead and take the necessary precautions to stay safe. Check on your loved ones and neighbors, stay informed about the forecast and seek a cool place if you need one. We want everyone to enjoy a safe and happy holiday." 

"With so many people traveling and celebrating across Massachusetts this week, we're asking everyone to plan ahead and put safety first," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "Stay hydrated, take breaks from the heat when you can and look out for those who may be more vulnerable to these dangerous temperatures." 

To reduce the risks of heat-related illness including heat stroke and heat exhaustion, residents should:  

• Minimize time spent outdoors, especially during the hottest parts of the day. If you are outside, apply sunscreen (SPF of at least 30) 15-20 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, and wear protective clothing to avoid sunburn.  
• Stay hydrated by drinking lots of cool water every 15-20 minutes and avoiding alcoholic or caffeinated beverages. Do not leave pets outside for extended periods of time. 
• Seek out air-conditioned buildings like libraries and community centers to spend time in. Call 2-1-1 to find locations of cooling centers or shelters near you.  
• Never leave children or pets in the car alone – the temperatures will rise to unhealthy levels within minutes.  
• Check in on neighbors who may need assistance making a plan, including the homebound, elderly, or disabled.    
• Dress for the heat bywearing a hat, light-colored, loose fitting, and breathable clothing. 
• As always, call 9-1-1 in an emergency.  

"Our team is working closely with local, state, federal, and nonprofit partners to monitor conditions and support communities across the Commonwealth during this period of extreme heat. While public safety and health agencies are prepared to respond if needed, the most effective response starts with personal preparedness,” said Massachusetts Emergency Management Director Dawn Brantley. “Stay informed with the latest forecast, adjust your plans if necessary, stay hydrated, and recognize the signs of heat-related illness, including headache, dizziness, fatigue and nausea.” 

“As temperatures remain high across the state, we encourage everyone traveling this summer to put safety first planning ahead for the heat,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “Whether you’re driving, taking public transportation, biking or walking, be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and take breaks in the shade. We are committed to keeping our transportation system safe and helping everyone reach their destinations safely during periods of extreme weather.” 

DPH 

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) reminds residents that extreme heat can affect anyone, but older adults, young children, pregnant people, people with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers, and those without access to air conditioning are at greater risk for heat-related illness. DPH encourages residents to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, stay in cool or air-conditioned spaces whenever possible, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day. Residents can also sign up to receive community heat alerts and access additional heat safety resources. For more information, including the Massachusetts Unhealthy Heat Forecast, visit: Massachusetts Unhealthy Heat Forecast | Mass.gov. 

DPU 

The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) issued a letter yesterday to Eversource, National Grid, Unitil, and Municipal Light Plants requesting that they refrain from shutting off residential customers’ electric service who are experiencing financial hardship throughout the extreme heat event and during any Unhealthy Heat Alert throughout this summer. Currently, the DPU’s regulations provide for a moratorium on residential shut-offs during the winter season only, but Governor Healey’s Energy Affordability Independence and Innovation Act includes placing a moratorium on electric shutoffs during periods of unhealthy heat.   

DCR 

The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) encourages residents and visitors to beat the heat by visiting one of its beaches, pools, spray decks, or wading pools located across Massachusetts.  

• Guarded beaches are staffed daily from 10:15 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.  
• Agency-managed pools are open 11:15 a.m. to 6:45 p.m., seven days a week. 
• Guarded wading pools are open daily from 10:15 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., and spray decks operate daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

DCR continues to make its recreational facilities accessible for all visitors. All DCR swimming pools are equipped with chair lifts, and several pools feature ramps or zero-depth entry, and select pools and spray decks offer beach wheelchairs. Beach wheelchairs are also available at 44 DCR beaches statewide. 

Before heading out, visitors are encouraged to check DCR's Park Alerts for facility closures or changes in operating hours and review the Beach Water Quality Dashboard for the latest water quality conditions 

Residents working outdoors should remember these words: “Water. Rest. Shade.” Outdoor workers should drink water frequently, take regular breaks in shaded or cool areas, and watch for signs of heat-related illness. Employers are encouraged to take steps to protect workers during periods of extreme heat. Additional workplace heat safety resources are available through OSHA's Heat Illness Prevention program, and the Massachusetts Department of Labor Standards offers free SafetyWorks consultation services to help employers prevent heat-related illnesses and other workplace hazards.  

MassDOT  

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation Highway Division is ensuring all proper protocols are in effect to protect employees and contractor personnel who are subject to extended exposure to extreme heat. 

The Highway Division will also monitor the operation of select movable bridges, including drawbridges to ensure that extreme heat does not affect the equipment used to raise and lower these structures or impact their normal operating conditions. 

MBTA   

Riders are encouraged to learn more about keeping cool in the heat and consult the T’s Extreme Heat Guide.    

The MBTA anticipates that service will run as usual but may operate trains at reduced speeds in some areas to compensate for heat-related stress on the tracks, which could result in slightly longer travel times. In addition to operating trains at reduced speeds if necessary, crews perform track inspections and make emergency repairs as needed. Overhead wires that power some vehicles can expand and sag during extremely hot weather, so the MBTA makes adjustments to prevent low-hanging wires as well.  

The MBTA reminds riders to let staff know if there are air conditioning issues on the bus or train. Tell an operator, let a station official know, call 617-222-3200, send us a message, or message the MBTA on X @MBTA. Be sure to include a bus or train number. 

Massachusetts residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor weather forecasts for the most up-to-date information. For the latest updates, follow the National Weather Service Boston/Norton and MEMA on Facebook, Instagram, and X, formerly Twitter.  

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