Tuesday's Extreme Heat Sets New Record In Baltimore
PASADENA, Md. (WJZ) -- The extreme heat set a new record Tuesday in Baltimore. It also caused problems for area schools. Anne Arundel County officials say students at Chesapeake Bay Middle School were dismissed early Tuesday because of the heat. Early dismissals are continuing at some schools for Wednesday, as well.
Kelly McPherson reports without a working air conditioning system, firefighters say the school felt like an oven.
A teacher and at least one student have been treated for heat-related symptoms, including fatigue, heavy sweating, muscle cramps, headaches and nausea.
Multiple medical units responded to the scene.
"Physically, it felt like everyone could pretty much faint because of how hot it was. It felt at least 100 degrees," said Chase Hudson.
"I know how hot it is in my house without air conditioning and I can just imagine in that school with no windows open and all those little bodies, it's just really unsafe conditions," said parent Charlene Hudson.
The building also houses Folger McKinsey Elementary School. Both schools closed early because they didn't want to take the chance that any other students would become ill.
"The fire department, as well as the school board, provided cool beverages for the students and kept them in the most comfortable areas of the school, while awaiting transportation -- either parents or the buses -- to transport them safely home," said a firefighter official.
Ambulances and fire trucks have cleared the scene. The school is officially closed for the rest of the day.
But children aren't the only ones at risk. ER doctors warn the elderly are especially vulnerable.
"If they are exhibiting any kind of change in mental status or extreme fatigue, don't hesitate to bring them to the ER," said Dr. Christopher Lorentz, St. Joseph Medical Center.
Even after the sun set, the temperature created problems in Baltimore. About 1,000 homes lost power.
"I'm an asthmatic," said one woman. "This is ridiculous."
BGE says the power should be restored after midnight.
Click here for a complete list of school closings throughout Maryland. Baltimore County schools will be closing three hours early on Wednesday, as well, and Baltimore City will be operating on a half-day schedule.
