Heat, humidity along with smoke from Canadian wildfires make for a toxic mix

Today's hot, hazy and humid weather combined with continued smoke from Canadian wildfires will cause reduced air quality and health concerns for the elderly, children and those with breathing problems, according to safety officials.

With temps around 89 and high humidity the heat index in Rochester is already over 100 degrees as of this posting and will reach at least 102 this afternoon.
Meanwhile, nighttime lows will be 65, 72 and 74 over the next three days, respectively.

Meanwhile the UV index - which can cause serious damage to skin and eyes - is 10 (very high) and will remain the same on Wednesday.

With that in mind, the city of Rochester is urging residents who need a break from the heat to visit either City Hall or the Rochester Public Lbrary.

City Hall is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Public Library is open Monday through Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Thursdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Residents are also reminded of the standard safeguards to keep you and your loved ones safe, including the following.

Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.

Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine. People who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease, are on fluid-restricted diets, or have a problem with fluid retention, should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.

Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.

Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.

Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power during periods of extreme heat. Stay on the lowest floor out of the sun if air conditioning is not available.

Sign up for NH Alerts to receive emergency information via your mobile and landline phones.

Check the weather and listen to a NOAA Weather Radio for critical updates from the National Weather Service.

If you must go outside:

Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.

Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun's rays.

Protect your face and head by wearing sunblock and a wide-brimmed hat.

Postpone outdoor games and activities.

Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.

Residents should take action before a heat emergency and can learn more at www.readynh.gov/disasters/extreme-heat.