THE FOLLOWING NOTIFICATION IS FROM THE STEPHEN M. LAWLOR MEDICAL INTELLIGENCE CENTER
MIC Activation Status: Level 1 – Enhanced Monitoring & Coordination
Incident: 2019 JUL 19-21 Excessive Heat/Humidity
When: 2019 JUL 17 at 1630 HRS
This coming weekend, the National Weather Service is forecasting a multi-day high heat event. Friday, July 19 through Sunday, July 21 the Heat Index is expected to rise to dangerous levels, with Saturday forecasts reaching a Heat Index of 105°F and above 95°F Sunday. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity can lead to negative health outcomes for our most at-risk residents, and for those in neighborhoods that experience the “heat island” effect. In addition, overnight temperatures are not expected to drop below 80°F Friday or Saturday which makes it harder for the human body to cool down and recover, elevating the health threats.
Mayor Walsh recently issued a press release asking residents to take precautions during this period of hot weather. At this time, the Mayor has not declared a Heat Emergency. Residents and visitors in Boston are encouraged to spend time inside air-conditioned buildings during the hottest parts of the day, generally 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Boston Public Libraries and Boston Centers for Youth & Families’ community centers will be open normal business hours. The City maintains a map of all of the City’s community center pools and City-owned tot sprays.
Residents are encouraged to check on their neighbors, especially the elderly or differently abled, and community partners are encouraged to share information on preparedness, safety, and resources within their networks. Tips and resources can be found at boston.gov/heat, including information sheets translated into 10 languages. You can also follow @CityOfBoston on Twitter for the latest updates. Residents can sign-up for AlertBoston, the City’s emergency notification system, to receive emergency alerts by phone, email or text. Residents are also encouraged to call 311 with any questions about available city services.
The City of Boston works closely with a network of shelter providers to ensure there is adequate shelter, food, and a cool respite from the heat. The Boston Public Health Commission operates emergency shelters at 112 Southampton St. and 794 Massachusetts Ave. These facilities are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. When temperatures exceed 90°F, homeless shelters in Boston may grant amnesty for individuals banned for non-violent offenses. Street outreach teams providing recovery services, including the Engagement Center behind 112 Southampton St., remain operating as normal during summertime weather.
The MIC is currently activated to a Level 1 – Enhanced Monitoring & Coordination in support of Emergency Support Function 8: Public Health and Medical Services and will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary. If your public health program or healthcare facility/service experiences any significant impacts due to this event, are in need of additional support or resources, or have any additional questions or concerns, contact the MIC at (617) 343-6920 or or [email protected].
The information in this email is for your institution and/or agency’s planning purposes only. Share with relevant employees and coworkers as needed. Please do not redistribute this email to outside parties without authorization from the MIC.
Office of Public Health Preparedness | 617-343-6920 | [email protected]
Boston Public Health Commission
