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Scorching Heat Wave Brings Oppressive Humidity and Heat-Related Concerns to Connecticut

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As a record-breaking heat wave cooks the state, coastal New London County is grappling with oppressive humidity, with the Groton/New London area experiencing an unusually high dew point of 77, making it feel as bad as the worst humidity in Florida. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for the region, while cooling centers are set up throughout the area to help residents beat the heat.

Key Takeaways:

  • The heat wave is causing oppressive humidity, with the Groton/New London area experiencing a dew point of 77, making it feel as bad as the worst humidity in Florida.
  • The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for the region, warning of potentially life-threatening temperatures and humidity levels.
  • Cooling centers are set up throughout the area, including at the Public Library of New London and Norwich Rose City Senior Center, to help residents escape the heat.
  • Local businesses have closed early due to the heat, and some parks in the state have closed due to capacity, including Miller's Pond State Park in Durham and Bigelow Hollow State Park in Union.
  • Area hospitals have reported minor heat-related injuries, but no serious cases of heat stroke have been treated.
  • The state's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has warned that the heat can interact with medications in three ways, including interfering with the body's temperature regulation and fluid levels.

Statistics:

  • The heat advisory issued by the National Weather Service is in effect from 3:04 p.m. Tuesday to 7 p.m. Wednesday.
  • High temperatures are expected to continue Wednesday, with the weather service predicting a humid day with highs in the lower 90s in New London, with heat index values up to 100.
  • There have been no cases of heat stroke treated at Lawrence + Memorial and Westerly hospitals this year.
  • Dr. Aaron Mittleman reported that his hospital has had some heat-related illnesses but no serious cases.
  • 3% of patients were treated for heat-related issues at Backus Hospital on Tuesday.

Sources:

  • The Day (New London, Conn.)
  • National Weather Service
  • Dr. Aaron Mittleman, Lawrence + Memorial and Westerly hospitals
  • Dr. Kyle McClaine, Backus Hospital
  • Will Healey, spokesperson for the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
  • Gary Lessor, chief meteorologist at Western Connecticut State University's Connecticut Weather Center

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