The Montgomery County Commissioners have declared a "Code Red" Hot Weather Emergency for Montgomery County based on a review of forecasts from the National Weather Service. The "Code Red" declaration has been issued for the County on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Wednesday, July 17, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

            A Code Red Hot Weather Emergency is declared when the temperature or 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 listed below:

            Norristown Hospitality Center, 530 Church Street, Norristown, PA 19401, 610-277-1321. Open during the hours of the Code Red Hot Weather emergency, including weekends.

            Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library, 1001 Powell Street, Norristown, PA 19401, 610-278-5100. Open Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Open Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.;

            Pottstown Regional Public Library, 500 East High Street, Pottstown, PA 19464,

610-970-6551. Open Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Open Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.;

            TriCounty Active Adult Center, 288 Moser Road, Pottstown, PA 19464, 610-323-5009. Open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.;

            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.

            During a Code Red Emergency, extreme heat cooling programs for all residents in need are available at 70+ sites in the region. Find a resource near you by visiting PA211.org.

            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.

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