Temperatures are expected to reach 100 degrees across the Delaware Valley this week, prompting the Delaware County Health Department to issue a Code Red alert for excessive heat in Delco until 8 p.m. Wednesday, or longer if the forecast worsens.
According to Delaware County's 2025 Heat Plan, a Code Red goes into effect when based on the temperature and humidity percentage, there is an apparent temperature of 95 degrees Fahrenheit or more during the hours of 12 p.m. - 8 p.m. for two or more hours. Delaware County issued the Code Red Sunday.
The announcement triggers the county's emergency heat programs, including cooling centers and extended daytime outreach for people experiencing homelessness.
James Garrow, a spokesperson for the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, said Philadelphia uses data linking heat index levels to spikes in heat-related illness and death. The threshold for declaring a Heat Health Emergency varies throughout the summer, starting lower in early months and increasing as residents acclimate.
"I know everybody understands that it's hot out and it's miserable to be outside," Garrow said. "But this is more than just it's miserable. It is dangerous and potentially deadly, which is why the city has kicked in a number of heat response services."
According to the World Health Organization, heat stress is the leading cause of weather-related deaths. Heat vulnerability depends on psychological factors, such as age and health factors, along with exposure factors, including occupation and socio-economic conditions.
While everyone should take precautions in extreme heat, the vulnerable populations named in Delco's Heat Plan include older adults, infants and children, pregnant women, people on medications that might affect bodu temperature, people with chronic conditions, outdoor workers and unhoused people.
DelcoNow.com and PhillyDaily.com have outlined heat safety measures for Delaware Valley residents, especially those at higher risk during the heat wave.
People without air conditioning are advised to seek relief from the heat through neighbors or relatives who have air conditioning or by visiting cooling centers around the county.
Cooling centers consist of several libraries and senior centers across Delaware County. Centers can be found in sections 4.1 and 5.1 of the Heat Plan.
“We also encourage folks to who have air conditioning and maybe are dealing with the heat a little better, to check on neighbors, loved ones, friends and family who may not have air conditioning," Garrow said. “Make sure that they're doing okay. Make sure they're drinking water all for them to stop by if you can, or take them to a cooling center just to help take the edge off.’
According to the World Health Organization, heat stress occurs when the body is unable to regulate its internal temperature, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. The body puts strain on the heart and kidneys as it tries to cool itself.
This is why extreme heat poses greater health risks for people with chronic conditions and can cause acute kidney injury.
To help people prepare and stay safe before temperatures climb, several organizations offer safety guidance.
The American Red Cross created a list of things to do before extreme heat occurs, including staying hydrated, gathering emergency supplies and staying connected with the community.
The average person needs around three-fourths of a gallon of water daily, though this varies. Monitoring your hydration levels, along with avoiding sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks, can help prevent heat illnesses.
Organizing emergency supplies, such as food, water and medicine, can also prevent disastrous situations, especially if stores close during a heat emergency or storm.
Electric fans are not sufficient during heat emergencies and staying in air conditioning during the hottest parts of the day will be more effective at preventing heat illnesses.
Creating a plan in advance is a great way to ensure everyone’s safety.
Other safety tips include:
Early signs of heat stress include low energy, faintness, nausea, and loss of appetite. If symptoms appear, move to a cool place, drink fluids, remove extra clothing and rest. Call 911 if symptoms worsen.
Severe symptoms—such as unconsciousness, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, confusion, vomiting, or difficulty breathing—require immediate medical attention. Call 911 right away.
Delco residents can contact the Delaware County Health Department's Wellness Line for resources and guidance. The Wellness Line can be contacted by calling (484) 276-2100, or by emailing [email protected].
Residents can also use the website findhelp.org to search their zip code and access a list of programs availanle in their area, including food pantry locations, sheltering and housing opportunities, and more.
