BOSTON — Dangerous heat is expected to continue for the Boston area into the weekend, as the heat emergency declared by Mayor Marty Walsh earlier in the week remains in effect.
Highs on Friday are expected to get up into the mid- to upper 90s, but with high humidity it will feel like more than 100 degrees F, said AccuWeather.com Senior Meteorologist Tom Kines. Occasional showers and thunderstorms will spark in the evening, bringing some much-needed rain to the area, but posing some risks as well.
“With the high humidity, any rain today has the potential to be heavy,” said Kines. “When you get heavy rain falling on such dry ground you could see flooding in low drainage areas, so that’s something to watch out for.”
The rain will provide a temporary reprieve from the heat, leading to a much cooler day on Saturday. Winds off of the water will keep the humidity levels high but will drop coastal highs down into the 70s, with temperatures in the 80s reaching inland.
Sunday will see a return to stifling heat and highs in the mid-90s.
A heat emergency is in effect through Saturday. Take advantage of our cooling centers & find out safety tips here: https://t.co/oG7TEBo3Zo
People and pets can quickly succumb to dangerous ailments like heat exhaustion or heat stroke in these temperatures, and experts say everyone should preventive measures to stay safe over the weekend:
— Stay hydrated. Boston residents should drink plenty of water throughout the coming days. In these temperatures, people can become dehydrated quickly and without realizing it. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, headaches, dry skin, extreme thirst and confusion.
— Limit time in the sun. The sun is at it’s most powerful from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Those who work outdoors should take frequent breaks to rest in the shade or to go inside when possible. Always wear sunscreen when spending any length of time outside.
— Never leave people or pets in the car. Even in the shade of with the windows down, a vehicle can quickly amplify the heat. In 100-degree weather, the inside of a car can reach 140 degrees in just 15 minutes. If you see a child or animal in a car in the hot weather, call the police.
— Check on vulnerable neighbors. Children, the elderly and the homeless face greater dangers in hot weather. Keep an eye out for your neighbors or anyone who appears to be in distress. The city offers special services for the homeless in extreme heat.
— Don’t drive in floods. If thunderstorms lead to flash floods, never try to drive through the water. Flood waters can look more shallow than they actually are or can hide holes and other hazards. A vehicle can be moved by flash floods in as little as 6 inches of water.
Cooling stations have been set up in locations across the metropolitan area. Anyone who feels unsafe or unable to protect themselves in the heat should call 311 to find a heat-relief shelter.
(Adobe Stock photo) 
