Maryland Weather: Heat Advisory Issued For Saturday

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- High heat and humidity have settled for a heatwave lasting through the weekend in the Baltimore region.

A heat advisory has been issued for Saturday, July 17, beginning at noon and lasting until 8:00 p.m.

Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Letita Dzirasa also extended the Code Red Extreme Heat alert through July 17 earlier this weekend.

"Excessive heat is the leading weather-related killer in the United States. The effects of extreme heat are exacerbated in urban areas, especially when combined with high humidity and poor air quality," said Dr. Dzirasa. "Extreme heat is particularly dangerous for young children, older adults, and those with chronic medical conditions. I encourage all residents to take the necessary steps to protect themselves as well as their families, neighbors, and pets."

Temperatures will stay in the low- to mid-90s through the week, but the heat index will show temperatures up to 105 degrees Friday, day five of the heatwave.

Spotty thunderstorms visited for the first three days of the week, but Marty Bass said the threat will be minimal Thursday and Friday. Stong to severe storms are in the forecast Saturday.

It's expected to cool down toward the weekend, but not too much. High 80s are forecast for Saturday and Sunday.

Anchor Tim Williams noticed that the high heat coincides with Artscape, a notoriously hot Baltimore art festival.

However, while temperatures remain in the upper 90s, here are a few safety tips from Meteorologist Chelsea Ingram:

The Maryland Department of Health also released a few tips on how to avoid any heat-related illnesses.

During the Code Red Extreme Heat season, the city's health department recommends:

• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine
• Reduce outside activities
• Stay inside during the hottest time of day (11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
• Seek relief from the heat in air-conditioned locations
• Check on older, sick, or frail people in your community who may need help in the heat.
• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles, even for short periods of time.
• Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Remember to check on family and friends who may have a hard time coping with the high temperatures. Information on cooling centers can be found here: https://health.baltimorecity.gov/coderedinfo. 

Stay up-to-date with the latest forecast by downloading the WJZ weather app.

In:
• Baltimore
• Heat Wave
• Baltimore City