Holland will remain under an extreme heat warning through July 3, according to the National Weather Service.
Such a warning is issued when dangerous temperatures are expected or occurring. Heat index values of up to 105 degrees are anticipated.
Ottawa County Emergency Management has warned residents to be wary of the combination of heat and very high humidity, in addition to a lack of overnight relief. The expected warm nights can make it harder for the body to recover from daytime heat, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
How to protect yourself during a heat wave
According to Ottawa County Emergency Management, residents should drink plenty of water throughout the day, regardless of whether they feel thirsty.
If you must work outside during the hottest parts of the day, officials recommend taking frequent breaks in the shade or an air conditioned location. Be sure to wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and use sunscreen.
During a heat wave, children, older adults and pets should never be left inside a parked vehicle — even for a few minutes.
Prepare for possible power outages
Ottawa County Emergency Management warns that periods of extreme heat often lead to increased electricity demand, so it’s important to prepare in case of brownouts or blackouts.
If the power goes out:
Where are emergency cooling centers in Holland?
Gateway Mission has announced cooling centers at the organization’s Men’s Center and Women and Children’s Center, beginning at 12 p.m. June 29 and running through July 2.
The centers will be open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and are located at 643 S. Waverly Road and 356 Fairbanks Ave.
Individuals who don’t pose a threat to others and wish to stay past 5 p.m. are welcome to check into the nonprofit’s open door emergency shelter.
The Salvation Army of Holland will also be open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at 104 Clover St.
— Cassidey Kavathas is the politics and court reporter at The Holland Sentinel. Contact her at ckavathas@hollandsentinel.com. Follow her on X @cassideykava.
This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: Holland under extreme heat warning until July 3. Here’s what to know
Reporting by Cassidey Kavathas, Holland Sentinel / The Holland Sentinel
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By Cassidey Kavathas, Holland Sentinel | USA TODAY Network
