Lee County on June 19 began offering heat-related assistance to vulnerable populations.
The announcement follows The National Weather Service issuing a heat advisory on June 18 and again on June 19. The advisory predicts a heat index up to 110 degrees, which can create dangerous conditions and cause heat illnesses.
National Weather Service Meteorologist Stephen Shively recommended limiting outdoor activity, especially in the middle of the afternoon.
“Stay hydrated if you are outdoors,” Shively said. “Make sure to get in the shade and take as many breaks as possible.”
Lee County Transit, the Lee County Library System and Lee County Human & Veteran Services are offering air-conditioned spaces and supplies to residents seeking heat-related relief.
Lee County Transit: air-conditioned buses
From June 19 to June 24, Lee County Transit will have air-conditioned buses open for people to board from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The buses will be stationed at three locations:
Lee County Library System: air-conditioned spaces
The Lee County Library System is welcoming residents in need of air conditioning at two library locations:
Fort Myers Regional Library: 2450 First St., Fort Myers
North Fort Myers Public Library: 2001 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers
Supplies and information
Lee County Housing, Outreach and Treatment (HOT) teams are in the area distributing hot-weather supplies, including drinking water and cooling wraps, to individuals experiencing homelessness. Individuals can request supplies by calling 239-533-7996.
The Lee County Human & Veteran Services’ Reach app provides information about heat-related services available. The app is free to download on the Apple App Store and Google Pay. It is recommended for users to sign up for push alerts for timely updates.
For heat-related information and updates from Lee County, call 239-533-7996 or visit Lee County’s Facebook or Instagram page.
Lee County is encouraging residents to watch weather updates from the National Weather Service at https://www.weather.gov/tbw/ and to monitor reports from local meteorologists.
Reach reporter Vanessa Norris by emailing vnorris@news-press.com
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This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: The heat is on! Lee County offers relief as index may hit 110
Reporting by Vanessa Norris, Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News / Fort Myers News-Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Vanessa Norris, Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News | USA TODAY Network
