Philadelphia sets record for hottest May day on record
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia set a record Tuesday for the hottest May day ever recorded with 98 degrees.
The previous record high for the month was 96 degrees, set in 1962.
Temperatures across the region also climbed to record levels. Reading reached 97 degrees, tying its all-time May high, while Wilmington and Trenton both broke daily records with highs of 96 degrees.
A heat advisory has been issued for Wednesday for the Philadelphia region.
Adding to concerns, the National Weather Service issued a Code Orange air quality alert for Philadelphia, indicating conditions are unhealthy for sensitive groups.
Officials continue to emphasize hydration, limiting outdoor activity, and checking on neighbors as the region weathers the unseasonable heat.
"I think people seem to get in their mind that June, July, August is our time for high heat, and when it comes unexpectedly, people aren't necessarily prepared for it," said Gary Vinnacombe, director of emergency services for Delaware County.
Vinnacombe urged residents to take precautions and look out for one another, especially those most vulnerable. He encouraged outdoor workers to take frequent breaks and advised keeping children out of direct sunlight.
"It's a day off from school, they want to be out doing stuff with their friends, but we certainly want to make sure they stay hydrated," he said.
Residents are finding ways to cope.
"Air conditioner today," said Michelle Sorrentino of Glenolden.
Sorrentino took her 8-year-old son, Jaden, to Rose Tree Park but limited their time outside.
"Just for a little bit, and then you have to calm down and take a break and drink and hydrate," she said.
Others planned ahead to stay cool and protected from the sun.
"I had iced tea in the car and then put on a ton of sunscreen and then I know my son's school, we had to bring like an extra water bottle for them," said Andrea Bigus of Hockessin.
The heat is expected to break midweek when a strong cold front brings showers and a few storms on Wednesday evening.
Temperatures should be much cooler as we head into the Memorial Day holiday weekend.
