The Chester County Health Department has issued the first Extreme Heat Health Alert for 2026, effective Wednesday, June 10, through Saturday, June 13, as the National Weather Service forecasts dangerously high temperatures and heat index values.
Health Department Director Jeanne Franklin said, “Extreme heat can pose a health risk to anyone, but it’s especially dangerous for older adults, infants, individuals experiencing homelessness, people who work outside, pregnant women, and those with health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and sickle cell disease.
“The Health Department will monitor conditions during this extreme heat alert and extend it if extreme heat persists. In the meantime, everyone is urged to take precautions and check in with people who are at risk.”
The following precautions are advised during an Extreme Heat Health Alert:
- Stay hydrated.
- Never leave older adults, children, people with disabilities, or pets alone in cars.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activity between noon and 5 p.m.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
- Use sunscreen and UV-protective eyewear.
- Stay in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.
- Check that pets and livestock outdoors have adequate shade and water.
- Check on neighbors, relatives, and friends who may be vulnerable.
If air conditioning isn’t available, seek relief at a cooling center, such as a community pool, library, or senior center. Fans and cool showers can also help reduce heat exposure. Visit https://bit.ly/ChesCoHeatRelief to find the closest cooling center.
Keep in mind that when temperatures exceed 90°F, fans alone may not be enough to prevent heat-related illness.
Chester County residents can also call 211 (or text their zip code to 898-211) to reach the Human Needs Network of Chester County, which is available to assist with housing or utility needs.
Residents are encouraged to sign up at ReadyChesCo.org to receive Extreme Heat Health Alerts via email, text message, or phone. Existing users should verify that the Public Health notification category is selected in their account settings.
Dangerous heat may cause heat-related illnesses, including nausea, dizziness, heavy sweating, or muscle cramps. People experiencing these symptoms should move indoors to a cooler place immediately and seek medical attention if symptoms become severe.
Heat stroke is a serious condition, and 911 should be called immediately. Its symptoms include high body temperature, headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and fainting. Move the person to a cooler location and use cool cloths or a cool bath until help arrives.
To learn more about staying safe during extreme heat, visit chesco.org/heat.
