Active AlertsOxford, CT

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has issued an Air Quality Action Day for the following counties: Fairfield, New Haven, and Middlesex. Until 11 PM EDT this evening and again from 11 AM to 11 PM EDT on Wednesday. An Air Quality Action Day means that Ground Level Ozone within the region may approach or exceed unhealthy standards. For additional information, please visit the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Web site at http://www.ct.gov/deep/aqi

What: For the Extreme Heat Warning, dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 111 expected. For the Extreme Heat Watch, dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 101 possible.
Where: Portions of southern Connecticut, northeast New Jersey, and southeast New York.
When: For the Extreme Heat Warning, from noon Wednesday to 9 PM EDT Friday. For the Extreme Heat Watch, from Friday evening through Saturday evening.
Impacts: Extreme heat and humidity will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities.
Additional Details: This has potential to be a multi-day extreme heat event with near record high temperatures and little overnight relief. This level of heat can be deadly for those without adequate cooling and hydration. Impacts to transportation infrastructure and electrical and water systems are also possible.

An Extreme Heat Warning means that the combination of heat and humidity is expected to make it feel like it is 105 degrees or greater. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible, and drink plenty of water. Seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions are at an increased risk. Homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoor temperatures. Use air conditioning to stay cool at home or go to a place that has air conditioning. If you don't have home air conditioning, continue to seek out cool spaces each day as long as it remains hot, and for a few days after if your home is still hot. Check on vulnerable friends, family members and neighbors. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! In cases of heat stroke call 9 1 1. An Extreme Heat Watch means that the combination of heat and humidity could create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are possible. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible, and drink plenty of water.