Hot and Humid Temps, Strong Thunderstorms Rolling In

Westwood, portions of Norfolk County and most of eastern Massachusetts could see strong isolated thunderstorms this afternoon and overnight as temperatures and humidity levels skyrocket, the National Weather Service (NWS) warned on Wednesday.

The NWS issued a hazardous weather outlook for the region on Wednesday morning regarding the thunderstorms.

"Otherwise, hot and humid conditions with temperatures in the 90s away from the coast are likely," the advisory read. "Another chance for strong to severe thunderstorms will occur on Thursday as a cold front pushes through the region. The hot and humid weather will continue with temperatures once again pushing well into the 90s away from the coast."

The forecast for Westwood calls mostly sunny skies for the next two days, for a high near 94 on Wednesday and a high near 98 on Thursday.

Tips from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency to avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke include:

• Slow down and avoid strenuous activity.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Light colors reflect heat and sunlight and help maintain normal body temperature. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face from the sun.
• Limit intake of alcoholic beverages that can dehydrate the body.
• Eat well-balanced, light, regular meals.   Avoid high protein foods that increase metabolic heat.
• Stay indoors as much as possible.
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers. Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80 percent.
• Sunburn slows the skin's ability to cool itself.  If you are outside, use sunscreen lotion with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating.
• Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors.