Don’t be fooled by blue skies—the real threat is the air itself. A brutal heat emergency is unfolding across Rhode Island, with feels-like temperatures soaring to 110°F in Providence and surrounding areas. The National Weather Service has placed the entire region under an Extreme Heat Warning through 8 PM Tuesday, and experts are urging everyone—not just the elderly or sick—to take this seriously. This heat is intense enough to overwhelm even the healthiest body if precautions aren’t taken.
What’s Really Happening Above Us
This dangerous heat wave is caused by a heat dome—a massive area of high pressure that’s parked over Southern New England like a lid on a pot. It traps hot, humid air and blocks cooling breezes. The result? Temperatures in the 90s, but with humidity levels so high, it actually feels like 110°F.
That’s not just a number—it’s a level of heat that can cause serious illness after just minutes of exposure. And here’s the kicker: overnight temperatures are staying high too, hovering in the 70s, meaning little to no relief after sunset. Your body doesn’t get a chance to recover.
Who’s at Risk? (Spoiler: It Could Be You)
This isn’t just about the elderly or people with health conditions. Even healthy adults, kids playing outside, and anyone commuting or working outdoors could find themselves in trouble.
Here’s who should take extreme caution:
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Construction and road workers
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Runners, dog walkers, or outdoor fitness enthusiasts
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Children in outdoor camps or daycare
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Elderly individuals without air conditioning
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Pets—hot pavement can burn paws in seconds
Heat exhaustion and stroke symptoms include:
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Dizziness, nausea, headache
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Muscle cramps, rapid pulse
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Profuse sweating—or suddenly not sweating at all (a major red flag)
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Confusion, fainting, or heat-induced delirium
How to Protect Yourself Right Now
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Stay indoors from 11 AM to 6 PM—the hottest part of the day.
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Drink water constantly, even before you feel thirsty.
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Avoid strenuous activity—reschedule workouts, lawn care, or errands.
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Check on neighbors and relatives, especially seniors and those without AC.
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Keep pets safe—walk them in early morning or late evening and avoid pavement.
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Never leave anyone in a parked car, not even briefly—internal temperatures rise within minutes.
Why This Heat Warning Is Different
Unlike a typical hot summer day, this level of heat puts everyone at risk—even indoors if you don’t have cooling. Many Rhode Islanders live in older homes or apartments without air conditioning, and those spaces can quickly become dangerously hot. Hospitals see a spike in ER visits during heat emergencies, especially among children and the elderly.
With the humidity factored in, your body’s natural cooling mechanism (sweating) becomes far less effective. That’s why the “feels-like” temperature is what really matters—it tells you how your body experiences the heat, not just what the thermometer says.
How Long Will It Last?
The heat is expected to stay at dangerous levels through Tuesday evening, with only slight relief by Wednesday. Scattered storms may pass through late week, potentially breaking the heat dome, but until then, expect high humidity and persistent discomfort.
Bottom Line
This is not just another summer scorcher. It’s a serious health event. And the good news? With a few simple steps—staying cool, staying hydrated, and looking out for others—you can stay safe.
But this warning isn’t just for you—it’s for your neighbors, your pets, your community. So take it seriously. Spread the word. And please, stay indoors and hydrated.
