Heat Advisory today

Massachusetts is under a heat advisory once again as scorching summer temperatures return. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), parts of the state could feel as hot as 105°F in the coming days. If you're wondering how to prepare, stay safe, and protect your loved ones from this intense heat, this article is your go-to guide. Learn about what a heat advisory really means, safety tips, and what causes the heat index to spike so high.

NWS Heat Advisory definition

A heat advisory is issued by the National Weather Service when temperatures are expected to climb to dangerous levels. In general, the NWS issues a heat advisory when the heat index—a measure of how hot it feels when relative humidity is factored in—reaches 100°F to 105°F for at least two consecutive hours.

These alerts are serious. Extended exposure or strenuous activity in these conditions can lead to heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and people with pre-existing health conditions are particularly at risk.

Heat Safety awareness

Raising heat advisory awareness is more crucial now than ever. This latest wave of extreme weather comes on the heels of global heat records being shattered in 2024 and early 2025. With July historically being the hottest month in New England, health officials are urging residents to take extra precautions.

Local authorities and emergency departments across Massachusetts are preparing for increased heat-related ER visits. Cooling centers have been opened in several communities to help residents who may not have access to air conditioning.

Being aware of a heat advisory and understanding what actions to take can prevent health emergencies and even save lives.

Heat safety tips workplace

Employers and workers should take heat advisory warnings seriously, especially those working in construction, landscaping, agriculture, and other outdoor industries. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) advises taking the following steps:

• Schedule heavy work during cooler hours.
• Encourage frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
• Provide plenty of water—at least one cup every 15 to 20 minutes.
• Educate workers on the signs of heat illness, including dizziness, nausea, and confusion.
• Use the buddy system to monitor symptoms.

Employers who fail to follow these precautions during a heat advisory risk both legal liability and the well-being of their employees.

Alaska heat advisory Weather Service

Interestingly, even places like Alaska have started to receive heat advisory notices. While it might sound surprising, the NWS has reported unseasonably high temperatures in parts of the Last Frontier in recent years. As climate patterns continue to shift, no region is immune to extreme heat events.

The lesson? Heat advisory precautions are no longer only relevant in traditionally hot areas. Every state must be prepared for heat waves that break historical norms.

Which factors does the heat index account for

The heat advisory system uses the heat index to determine the perceived temperature. The heat index is calculated using two main factors:

1. Air temperature
2. Relative humidity

High humidity can make it feel much hotter than the actual air temperature. That’s because sweat doesn’t evaporate as efficiently when the air is already saturated with moisture. This decreases the body’s ability to cool itself, increasing the risk of overheating.

So, when Massachusetts sees temperatures in the 90s and high humidity levels, the heat index can easily rise above 100°F—triggering a heat advisory from the NWS.

Heat Safety Infographic

To help Massachusetts residents understand the dangers, state agencies and health organizations are sharing heat advisory infographics online. These quick-glance visuals usually include:

• Symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
• Do’s and Don’ts during extreme heat
• Signs to look out for in children and the elderly
• How to properly hydrate
• Tips for using fans and air conditioning efficiently

Infographics are a powerful tool for spreading awareness—especially on social media—where fast, visual communication can reach large audiences quickly during a heat advisory.

Heat Safety pdf

Many towns and health departments now offer downloadable heat advisory guides in PDF format. These heat safety PDFs typically include:

• Emergency contact numbers
• Locations of cooling centers
• Lists of supplies to keep at home
• Instructions for caring for pets during high heat
• Multilingual tips for non-English-speaking households

Residents are encouraged to print or save these PDFs on their devices in case internet access becomes limited during emergencies. Having a prepared plan in advance of a heat advisory can make a huge difference, especially for families with young children or elderly relatives.

Conclusion

As the temperature in Massachusetts climbs and the heat index pushes toward 105°F, the state is on high alert under a heat advisory. It’s not just about staying cool—it’s about staying safe. From understanding the heat index to applying workplace and home safety tips, now is the time to act.

Stay informed, protect your health, and check in on others. Got questions or want to share how you're beating the heat? Drop a comment or explore our latest weather preparedness articles.

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Massachusetts faces a new heat advisory as temps may feel like 105°F. Learn heat safety tips, workplace precautions, and how to protect yourself today