Heat indexes are expected to peak between 100 and 107 degrees over the next three days in Cherry Hill and the surrounding area.
Cherry Hill residents are asked to stay cool over the next few days as the National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for the township and much of the surrounding area through Saturday at 6 p.m.
The heat warning was issued with heat indexes expected to reach between 100 and 107 degrees every afternoon from Thursday through Saturday. Air temperatures are expected to be in the lower to mid 90s on each of those days. High heat index values are more likely on Friday and Saturday and the heat warning may be extended into Sunday if necessary.
To help residents stay cool, the Cherry Hill Public Library, Carmen Tilelli Community Center and Cherry Hill Mall are open as cooling centers in the township. In addition, the Camden County Department of Healthy and Human Services has released the following tips to stay cool during the heat.
· Avoid, as much as possible, working or playing in the hot sun or other hot areas. If you must be out in the sun, wear a head covering. A wide-brimmed hat or visor will not only protect your head from intense rays of the sun, it will also provide a shield for your eyes.
· Use air conditioners and fans. Open windows to release trapped hot air.
· Those taking regular medication should consult with their physician. Some medications cause an adverse reaction in hot weather.
· Wear lightweight clothing.
· Drink plenty of non-alcoholic liquids, warm and cool. Because the body loses fluids in the heat, drinking lots of liquids helps to avoid dehydration.
· Maintain a normal diet.
· Shower or bathe in water that is near skin temperature.
· Do not leave older people, children or pets alone in cars.
· The early warning signs of heat stress are decreased energy, slight loss of appetite, faintness, light-headedness and nausea. People experiencing these symptoms should go to a cool environment, drink liquids, remove excess clothing and rest.
Camden County senior citizens age 60 or older with an annual income of $25,000 or less are eligible to receive a free fan. To request a fan, call the Camden County division of Senior Services at (856) 858–3220.
