More heat could be followed by rough storms
A reprieve from hot temperatures may offer a perfect time to reflect on how to cope with warmer weather.
Despite it still being spring, Butler County experienced two straight days of temperatures in the 90s and heat indices in the 100s. Summer begins Tuesday.
Lee Hendricks, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service of Pittsburgh, said it is a little early to see these types of temperatures, but it’s not unusual either.
“On average, it’s a little early,” Hendricks said. “Normally this time of year, we’re looking at highs of 82 or 83 degrees. It’s not so unusual that it is to cause any records or anything of that nature.”
According to the service’s data for June 15, the last record-setting temperature of 96 degrees was set in 1994, and the one before that was 94 in 1988. On Wednesday, the top temperature recorded was 92.
Still, across both days, the service instituted a heat advisory with concerns that some residents may be overexposed to the heat and fall prey to related illnesses. Those advisories came with suggestions to drink more water, work minimally outside and know the signs of heatstroke and exhaustion.
Beth Herold, director of the Area of Agency on Aging, said though it’s early, they routinely promote awareness during such weather events and throughout the summer.
She said if people are feeling dizzy or faint, it’s time to call for help.
“It’s really just reviewing education,” Herold said.
Herold said there are a few high-risk people who the agency checks on regularly during hotter weather, but for the most part, awareness is key. She said those that struggle during this time of year are active seniors, who for good reason like to keep moving and working.
“It’s the same when we get that first heavy snowfall, they all want to go out and shovel their walks,” Herold said. “Your grass can go for another day, and your flowers don’t need water today.”
Herold said her team also encourages other family members to check with their older relatives and make sure they’re doing well.
She said for those who are struggling to keep their house cool, public places are the perfect solution.
Herold said the mall, libraries and senior centers often are air-conditioned and open during the hottest parts of the day, in most cases. She said hydrating and avoiding sun exposure are some of the best ways to beat the heat and stay healthy.
“You don't realize how much that heat can take out of you,” Herold said.
There are also a number of pools throughout the county.
The Butler County Parks and Recreation operates the Alameda Waterpark in Butler Township, which was a popular place to be Wednesday, according to the department’s director Lance Welliver.
“It was probably one of the busiest days so far this year,” he said.
Alameda opened June 4 and will remain open until Aug. 28. In addition to its pool, it offers other amenities such as water slides, diving boards and a rock wall, as well as accessible entries. There’s also a concession stand and vending machines to provide people with fluids.
Though not run by the county, other community pools include, Armco Park in Slippery Rock, Butler Family YMCA in Butler, Cranberry Community Waterpark in Cranberry Township, EDCO Park Pool in Evans City, Penn Valley Athletic Club in Butler, Town Park Pool in Seven Fields and the Zelienople Community Pool.
Despite the hot couple of days, Butler County is forecast to return the 70s until at least Tuesday.
Hendricks said a cold front is following a band of storms expected to reach the county Thursday.
Hendricks said temperatures Friday should reach highs in the low 80s, before reaching the low 70s on Saturday. Hendricks said Monday likely will be a clear, dry day in the 70s, before Tuesday arrives with warmer temperatures again in the 90s.
“We’ll get a little bit of a respite from the heat over the weekend,” Hendricks said.
