City of Milwaukee Health Department Urges Caution During Extreme Heat Watch

MILWAUKEE — The City of Milwaukee Health Department (MHD) is urging residents to take precautions during an Extreme Heat Watch issued by the National Weather Service (NWS), in effect from Wednesday 10AM through Thursday 7PM.

Forecasts indicate dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 106 expected for Milwaukee County. Prolonged exposure to these conditions can lead to serious health risks, particularly for older adults, young children, individuals with chronic conditions, and those without access to air conditioning. Weather conditions may shift, so people are encouraged to monitor local forecasts for the most up-to-date information.

Cooling sites are available throughout Milwaukee County to provide relief from the heat. For an updated list of locations, and data on heat-related illness and injury, visit Milwaukee.gov/CoolingSites or call 2-1-1.

How to Stay Safe During Extreme Heat

Stay Cool

• Limit time outdoors, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
• Spend time in air-conditioned buildings such as libraries, malls, and community centers.
• If you have an air conditioner, install it and test that it is in working order.
• Never leave children or pets in vehicles.
• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• Use cool showers, baths, or wet towels to lower body temperature.
• Fans may provide comfort but should not be relied upon as the primary cooling method.

Stay Hydrated

• Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can increase dehydration.
• Encourage others to drink fluids as well.

Stay safe

• Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles. Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.
• Many public cooling sites are located along Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) routes. For more information about how to use public transit in Milwaukee County, visit www.ridemcts.com

Stay Informed

• Check local news and weather for heat alerts and tips.
• Know the signs of heat-related illnesses:
  • Heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, fainting
  • Heat stroke: high body temperature, dry skin, confusion, rapid pulse — call 911 immediately
• Check in on family, friends, and neighbors who may need extra help staying safe.

For additional hot weather safety tips, visit Milwaukee.gov/HotWeatherSafety.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.