Philadelphia Declares Heat Health Emergency as Dangerous Heat Wave Sweeps Region
The National Weather Service is forecasting dangerously high temperatures across the Philadelphia region, with Sunday expected to hit 97°F and a heat index surpassing 100°F. Monday and Tuesday could feel even hotter, with heat index values reaching up to 107°F.
In response, the City of Philadelphia has declared a Heat Health Emergency beginning noon Sunday, triggering critical resources such as:
- Cooling centers at select libraries, recreation centers, and Philadelphia Housing Authority facilities.
- A pause on all Philadelphia Water Department shutoffs.
- Activation of a Code Red by the Office of Homeless Services to protect unhoused individuals.
The emergency declaration will remain in effect until at least Wednesday evening, and could be extended if extreme heat persists.
Resources Available:
- A map of cooling centers can be found online.
- The Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s Heatline is open during daytime hours at 215-765-9040, offering safety tips and access to nurses for heat-related health concerns.
- Code Red outreach teams are available 24/7 to transport people experiencing homelessness to shelters. To request help, call the Homeless Outreach hotline at 215-232-1984.
City Officials Urge Vigilance:
“High heat poses a serious health risk, especially to older adults and those with medical conditions,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson. “It’s crucial to help loved ones get into air-conditioned spaces during peak heat hours and check on elderly neighbors regularly.”
During Code Red periods, all dogs must be sheltered indoors or have proper shade, water, and protection.
The emergency measures extend across Philadelphia, the Pennsylvania suburbs, South Jersey, and Delaware as the region braces for one of the hottest stretches of the summer.
