PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The next few days are going to be a scorcher for New England.
The National Weather Service in Albany, N.Y., has issued a heat advisory from noon to Tuesday to 8 p.m. on Thursday.
Temperatures are expected in the low 90s but the high humidity could spike the heat index to 105 degrees.
Numerous agencies and meteorologists are offering guidance on staying cool and out of the sun. Local cooling centers include libraries and senior centers.
Misting fans will be located at Persip Park and the Ralph J. Froio Senior Center during daytime hours Tuesday through Friday; the senior center will open from 8 to 4 but closed for the Wednesday holiday.
The North Adams library will be opend from 10 to 5 Tuesday and Thursday and the Mary Spitzer Senior Center from 8 to 4; the splash pad at Noel Field will be open.
"Extreme heat can pose health challenges, particularly for our more vulnerable populations such as older adults, children and those with chronic health conditions," said Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency Director Dawn Brantley. "We encourage residents to plan ahead and take common-sense steps to protect against heat-related illnesses, including staying hydrated, keeping out of the sun, checking on elderly neighbors and being aware of nearby cooling centers."
Most heat-related illnesses occur because the victim has been over-exposed to heat or has over-exercised for his or her age and physical condition. Although anyone can suffer from a heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Those at greater risk include older adults, young children and those who are sick or overweight. To reduce the risks of extreme heat conditions, MEMA urges to take the proper safety precautions to protect yourself and your family.
Wear light clothing, reduce activity, don't leave children or pets in cars, stay inside or in the shade as much as possible (pets, too), drink lots of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine drinks, and take frequent breaks.
"We are encouraging anyone who has to work outside, including our highway crews, to take steps to keep themselves safe, especially Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday,” said Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver. "The traveling public should also be aware that the operation of certain transportation infrastructure, especially moveable bridges, may be adversely impacted by the heat."
The state Department of Transportation is advising travelers to check their vehicles before leaving on trips to ensure radiators have sufficient coolant and that other fluid levels are keeping with safe operation.?It's also advising to plan trips during the cooler times of the day and to pack water.
Eversource says its prepared for a jump in power needs, noting customers use about 40 percent more electricity to keep cool "when the mercury soars."
"Our crews are focused on working safely to ensure reliable electric service for our customers year-round, especially during these hot and humid days when many customers will have their fans and AC units running in full force," said Eversource President of Regional Electric Operations Craig Hallstrom. "We begin preparing well in advance for the increased demand we typically see this time of year by conducting ground and aerial inspections of the electrical system so we can proactively detect and address any issues."
To manage energy use, he suggests keeping air conditioners as low as comfortable and vents clear; use major appliances during cooler hours; keep blinds or curtains closed; use LED lights and set ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise and turn them off when leaving the room.
This is just the beginning of a lnog stretch of HOT and Humid Weather. Close to 90 today-Tomorrow and Wed/Thu-mid to upper 90s, but it will feel 100-105 with dew points near 70. Slow down take it easy. Please keep your pets safe in this heat.https://t.co/2cGQ73y4vv
This is just the beginning of a lnog stretch of HOT and Humid Weather. Close to 90 today-Tomorrow and Wed/Thu-mid to upper 90s, but it will feel 100-105 with dew points near 70. Slow down take it easy. Please keep your pets safe in this heat.https://t.co/2cGQ73y4vv
This is just the beginning of a lnog stretch of HOT and Humid Weather. Close to 90 today-Tomorrow and Wed/Thu-mid to upper 90s, but it will feel 100-105 with dew points near 70. Slow down take it easy. Please keep your pets safe in this heat.https://t.co/2cGQ73y4vv
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Dalton Planning Board Denies Berkshire Concrete's Special Permit
By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff
DALTON, Mass. — After five meetings, the Planning Board voted to deny Berkshire Concrete's special permit, however, the company can still reapply before its current permit expires.
After about 40 minutes of deliberation, board members reiterated recurring concerns raised in previous meetings: the company's lack of clear mitigation plans and ambiguous documentation outlining its work plans.
"I really have no confidence in their proposal so far," said Chair Zack McCain III.
The board denied the permit without prejudice, meaning Berkshire Concrete, a subsidiary of Petricca Industries, can reapply before its current permit expires in December 2027.
According to the current permit, earth removal, such as excavation, processing, and reclamation is allowed on lots 217-3 and 106-55.1, but is subject to several conditions set forth in 1992, 1994, and 2000.
Conditions include hours of operations, traffic regulations, restoration requirements, and other stipulations.
This decision indicates the board's belief, based on testimony and provided evidence that the excavation activities in the areas cannot occur without having a negative impact on the abutting neighborhood.
After five meetings, the Planning Board voted to deny Berkshire Concrete's special permit, however, the company can still reapply before its current permit expires. click for more
The City Council has approved a tax agreement to transform a historical downtown property into housing, and an effort to designate a local historical district in that area. click for more
Students at Wahconah Regional High School are urging the state to fully fund Rural School Aid that supports essential services that shape their future.
click for more
The fire station on West Housatonic Street has been temporarily closed after radon levels were found to be more than twice the normal amount. click for more