Updated Juy 9, 20241:45 p.m. 

          The Montgomery County Commissioners have extended their "Code Red" Hot Weather Emergency for Montgomery County through July 10. The "Code Red" declaration initially issued for the county on Monday, July 8, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Tuesday, July 9, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. has been extended to Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

            A Code Red Hot Weather Emergency is declared when the heat index is expected to be at or above 100°F for two hours or more. Such conditions can be deadly, and residents should take precautions to prevent heat-related stress and illness.

            Those especially at risk are lower income households, individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness, rural communities, residents in urbanized areas, infants and children, older adults, laborers, people with chronic medical conditions, those who take certain medications, and athletes. Friends, relatives, or neighbors should check on people who may be at risk. Seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms of heat-related illness, including muscle cramps, headache, nausea, or vomiting.

            The following cooling resources will be available during the Code Red Emergency. Days and hours for each location are: Norristown Hospitality Center, 530 Church Street, Norristown, PA 19401, 610-277-1321.  Open during hours of the Code Red Hot Weather emergency;

            Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library, 1001 Powell Street, Norristown, PA 19401, 610-278-5100.  Open Monday, July 8 and Tuesday, July 9 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.;

            Pottstown Regional Public Library, 500 East High Street, Pottstown, PA 19464, 610-970-6551. Open Monday, July 8 and Tuesday, July 9 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and

            TriCounty Active Adult Center, 288 Moser Road, Pottstown, PA 19464

610-323-5009. Open Monday, July 8 and Tuesday, July 9 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

            Additional Pa 2-1-1 Cooling Programs for all residents are available at 70+ sites in the region. Find a resource near you by visiting the PA 2-1-1 website.

            To report a concern or request assistance, please contact the 24/7 mobile crisis line at 855-634-HOPE to be connected to ACCESS SERVICES Street Outreach

            The County provides additional services during Code Red Hot Weather Emergencies for vulnerable populations such as those experiencing unsheltered homelessness: The Office of Housing and Community Development sends an alert to all Your Way Home providers. Street outreach teams and daytime homeless service programs provide water, cooling kits, and local cooling resources.

            Montgomery County Office of Senior Services maintains a list of weather-sensitive older adults who are currently case managed and are contacted by a case manager during heat emergencies to provide guidance or assistance accessing cooling resources.

            Helpful tips during the alert include: Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages; Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing; If at all possible, try to get outdoor work completed in the morning to avoid the warmest part of the day; Keep windows and interior doors open when running a fan at home; and Keep cool by seeking an air-conditioned building, such as a library, or senior center if available. If not, seek rest in the shade.