Heatwave sweeping through Philly this week

This week will be one of the hottest on recent record, with heat index values reaching up to 110 degrees, according to the National Weather System (NWS).

The group released a preliminary report Tuesday, telling Philadelphians to be ready for high temperatures starting Wednesday and lasting and climbing through the weekend. The actual temperatures are expected to be in the high 90s or even the low 100s, but heat index values (which measure how hot an area feels based on temperature and humidity) are expected to reach 105 to 110 degrees.

And there’s little relief at night: Lows are expected to be in the 70s or 80s, according to NWS.

Philadelphians should also prepare for flooding and storms on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, according to NWS.

The city had not released a statement on the heatwave as of Tuesday morning, but they have made all city pools open and free for residents to escape the heat.

Meanwhile, Philly’s Office of Emergency Management says they’re working with the city health department to monitor the coming heat wave and consider any additional steps that might need to be taken. They’ll also be prepared to handle power outages that can come with excessive heat and suggest people look at their hot weather blog post, which has information regarding a help number, cooling centers, and more.