City officials have declared a heat emergency beginning Wednesday, July 16, through Friday, July 18, in response to forecasts predicting dangerous heat index values between 91 and 97 degrees. The declaration comes as overnight temperatures are also expected to offer little relief. The city’s threshold for a heat emergency is two or more days with a heat index at or above 95 degrees.
Emergency management leaders are urging residents to take precautions during the extreme heat, especially by checking on older adults, staying hydrated, and remaining indoors during peak temperatures. Officials emphasized that heat can impact anyone, regardless of age or health, and may lead to a surge in emergency calls. Boston EMS typically sees a 10–15% increase in 9-1-1 activity during extended heat waves.
In response, Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) cooling centers will be open during regular hours, offering residents a place to cool off. Additional resources include splash pads, outdoor pools, and the Veronica B. Smith Senior Center in Brighton. Locations and hours are available at Boston.gov/pools and Boston.gov/BCYF-registration.
Boston Public Library branches will also remain open as cooling locations and continue to offer summer programming for all ages.
Key safety guidance includes:
- Never leave children or pets in vehicles.
- Drink water regularly; avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.
- Take cool showers and stay in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
- Recognize signs of heat exhaustion, including dizziness, nausea, and heavy sweating.
- Use sunscreen (SPF-30 or higher) and wear light, loose clothing.
- Use child window guards to prevent falls; secure window air conditioners properly.
- Swim only in areas monitored by lifeguards and supervise children at all times.
- Keep pets cool and off hot pavement.
Support for unhoused residents:
- If someone appears disoriented or immobile, call 9-1-1 immediately.
- Emergency shelters at 112 Southampton St. (men) and 794 Massachusetts Ave. (women) are air-conditioned and open 24/7. Amnesty policies allow access to those with non-violent restrictions during excessive heat.
- Outreach teams continue to distribute water and assist individuals experiencing homelessness throughout the city.
Additional reminders:
- Playground and turf surfaces can cause burns—ensure children wear shoes.
- Open fires, including fire pits and bonfires, are not permitted.
- Charcoal and propane grills must be used with caution and according to city regulations, keeping a distance from buildings and never left unattended.
