Heat Wave Continues for Norfolk County, Air Quality Alert Issued

With much of the state still battling through a heat wave this week, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection has also issued an Air Quality Alert for several counties, including portions of Norfolk County.

The "Air Quality Action Day" for ground-level ozone goes in effect today from 2 to 10 p.m.

The alert essentially means that ground-level ozone concentrations in the region may approach or exceed unhealthy standards. 

Temperatures are expected to reach as high as 97 degrees in the Westwood area Wednesday, and remain around 96 on Thursday before breaking way to wind and rain as Hurricane Earl approaches the Northeast this weekend. 

This isn't the first time the heat has pressed down hard on the Westwood area this summer; the region was hit hard with a Heat Advisory Index in July. 

"You should stay inside where it's cool as possible, and drink lots of fluid," Westwood Health Director Linda Shea told Westwood Patch during the Heat Advisory, offering ways for residents to stay safe in the heat. "You also shouldn't exercise during the heat of the day."

The ideal times to exercise during such heat, she added, are early in the morning or after dusk, when the heat isn't as extreme.

While the humidity may not be as extreme this week as it was last month, with temperatures hovering in the 90s, residents should be sure to wear hats and sunscreen while outdoors, as well as try to lend a hand to anyone who might need it.

For more information on how to stay safe during the heat, contact the Westwood Board of Health at 781-320-1026.