Heat Wave Continues

1. Mother Nature has no plans to cool down today. Like yesterday, it will be extremely hot in Attleboro and Seekonk, according to the National Weather Service. The predicted high is 99 with a heat index of 104. A Heat Advisory will be in effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The NWS' website states:

Heat kills. Children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water. 

To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency—call 911.

The nighttime forecast calls for partly cloudy skies with a low of 71. There is a 20 percent chance of rain with possible thunderstorms. A high of 95 is predicted for Friday during the day. Temperatures are expected to cool Saturday, with a high of 80 predicted.

2. Today is the final day of school for students in the Attleboro school district. A half day is scheduled. Middle school promotion ceremonies will take place at  (breakfast at 8:15 a.m., ceremony at 10 a.m.),  (8 a.m.) and  (10:15 a.m.).

3. If you believe the toxic pollution affecting the area in the vicinity of  should be cleaned, send a message to the EPA requesting funding. City Hall is collecting letters through the end of the month. They can be hand-delivered or mailed to Linda Alger, City Hall, 77 Park St., Attleboro, MA 02703.

4. City Council budget sessions continue. One will take place in the council chambers at City Hall at 6 p.m. The council is expected to vote on the budget Monday during a special meeting that will begin at 6 p.m. If the session takes too long, the vote could come Tuesday evening. 

5. Do you know interesting people in the community who should be profiled by Attleboro-Seekonk Patch? If so, contact me at jonathan.friedman@patch.com.