After record-setting temperature Tuesday, RI faces one more day of heat, humidity and bad air
Rhode Island experiences another day of extreme heat, with Providence expected to hit 95 degrees, feeling like 100 due to humidity. A statewide heat advisory, excluding Block Island, warns of unhealthy air quality for sensitive groups in Washington and Newport counties. The National Weather Service emphasizes the importance of hydration, avoiding sun exposure, and checking on vulnerable individuals during this heat event. If temperatures remain above 90 degrees for three consecutive days, it will signify Providence's second heat wave of the summer. The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management reports elevated ground-level ozone levels, exacerbated by smoke from Canadian wildfires, which can trigger respiratory issues.
Residents are encouraged to limit outdoor activities, especially in the afternoon when ozone levels peak. Precautions include monitoring for symptoms like coughing and shortness of breath, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions. Cooler air is expected to bring relief by Thursday, with temperatures dropping to around 79 degrees.