The National Weather Service predicts temperatures may reach 95 degrees tomorrow, Tuesday May 19, while Accuweather predicts a high of 97 degrees with a chance of rain or thunderstorms in the afternoon.
To help keep students and staff healthy and safe during this period of excessive heat, HPS schools are limiting outdoor recess breaks and physical education classes to minimize exposure to high temperatures and humidity. All HPS schools offer air conditioning, and school staff will monitor indoor air temperatures to ensure safe and comfortable learning spaces.
Families are asked to send their children to school with full water bottles so they can remain hydrated on their way to and from school. Each school building offers a water bottle refilling station so students can refill their bottles while at school. Air conditioning will be in use at all HPS schools.
"It’s important to take steps to remain cool, as hot temperatures and high humidity can cause heat-related illnesses to occur," said HPS Director of Health, Wellness, and Nursing Cynthia Carbone. She recommends reading and following this extreme heat guidance (also available En Español).
All community members are reminded to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air conditioned room if possible, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors, she said. Children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.
If you're looking for a place to stay cool, here are some local options:
Holyoke Library, 250 Chestnut Street, is open 8:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. today through Thursday and 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Friday.
The Holyoke Senior Center, 291 Pine Street, is open 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. on weekdays.
The Holyoke Mall is open 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. today through Thursday and 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. on Friday.
All three locations are air conditioned, free to enter, and are accessible via public transportation.