Officials in Maine are urging residents to take precautions as extreme heat is expected to impact the state with temperatures soaring into the 90s through Thursday. The Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) issued a statement on Monday warning that the heat index could surpass 95 degrees in many areas and may even reach the low 100s by midweek.
MEMA director Pete Rogers emphasized the importance of having a plan to stay cool during this heatwave. He advised people to limit outdoor activities, take frequent breaks, seek shade or shelter when outside, and stay well-hydrated.
To beat the heat, officials recommend using home air conditioning or visiting public places with air conditioning, such as designated cooling centers. In response to the extreme temperatures, the state has opened several cooling centers in Piscataquis, Cumberland, Oxford, and York Counties, with many of them scheduled to remain operational through Friday.