Heat Health Emergency issued amid record-breaking temps in Philadelphia region
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Friday will be another day of record heat and oppressive humidity in the Philadelphia region.
Health officials have issued a Heat Health Emergency due to the record-breaking temperatures.
A Heat Advisory went into effect at 11 a.m. on Thursday and will last until 8 p.m. Friday.
The heat and humidity will make the temperature feel like we're in the triple digits.
Officials advised residents, particularly children, older adults and those with underlying health conditions, to remain in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible and stay hydrated.
The heat wave warning comes as many people are planning to head outside for events like the FIFA Fan Fest at Lemon Hill in Philadelphia's Fairmount Park.
Fans are expected to gather there to watch Team USA's first match Friday night.
RELATED: How to cool off in Philadelphia during extreme heat
Families sought relief from the oppressive conditions at splash pads and public fountains throughout the city, including the Sister City Park splash pad near Logan Square.
"This is the place to be," said Christina Shelley of Germantown as her family cooled off in the water.
The extreme heat also impacted the final day of classes for many students. The School District of Philadelphia dismissed 52 schools early because of the dangerous temperatures.
In neighboring Bucks County, emergency crews responded to several high school graduation ceremonies after attendees experienced symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
According to Bucks County officials, more than six people were treated across the three Central Bucks high school graduation ceremonies, while three others were treated during graduation events in Bensalem.
Police are also investigating a toddler's death after she was found unresponsive inside her father's vehicle in Lower Nazareth Township, as temperatures climbed into the 90s on Thursday.
Some residents adjusted their plans to avoid prolonged exposure to the high temperatures. Others sought indoor attractions and air-conditioned spaces.
Health officials emphasized the importance of checking on vulnerable neighbors and family members during periods of extreme heat.
"As you get older, your body responds less well to heat, so check on your elderly neighbors," said James Garrow, deputy health commissioner for the Philadelphia Department of Public Health. "They did a great job raising us and getting us to this point. Now is a great time to check on them and make sure they're doing good."
Residents are encouraged to limit outdoor activity, drink plenty of water and seek cooling centers or air-conditioned spaces if needed.
Saturday will feel better. While it will still be hot, it will be less humid.
Next week is expected to drop back into the 80s.
