By Will Collette
So, this current heat wave poses the following health challenges to local residents and visitors' health.
A bad air alert for unhealthy ozone levels covering at least the next three days. The Health Department says the worst readings will be in our area.
People with sensitivities to air pollution should stay indoors and try to stay cool. Children with asthma and adults with COPD are especially at high risk.
You are also urged to curb unnecessary driving, outdoor burning, use of things like gas-powered lawn mowers or solvents. Shooting off fireworks isn't going to help. In other words, try not to make a bad situation worse.
Continue for information on other weather-related risks.
A serious heat advisory. My little weather station showed a temperature of 89 outside my Charlestown home at 10 AM. Add the humidity and it's going to be a very unpleasant day.
Shell-fishing bans currently affecting Bluff Hill Cove in Point Judith Pond and other areas in South County. CLICK HERE and HERE.
Unhealthy swimming. Ninigret Pond had been closed to swimming due to excessive bacteria. The Health Department has lifted that ban but notes that decisions about safe swimming will be made on a day-to-day basis.
Pollen Count. The good news for Charlestown is that the worst of our pollen has come and gone. The forecast for the next several days is for levels in the moderate range, low end.
Hurricanes and tropical storms. Also good news. No problems forecast for the next 48 hours anywhere in the northern Atlantic region.
