Get Ready for More Heat

Whether you've recovered from last week's roasting or not, prepare to endure another round of broiling summer heat. The National Weather Service says a new heat wave starts Thursday and could last throughout the weekend with temperatures in the 90s.

The NWS says thunderstorms are likely to be part of the weather picture. After a steamy Thursday, according to the forecast there is a 50 percent chance of booming showers after 8 p.m., and that chance continues into Friday.

By the time Saturday rolls in, the chance of precipitation may evaporate, but the NWS predicts temperatures in the 90s and that the high temps will hold steady at least through the middle of next week.

High temperatures can mean dangerous conditions for the elderly, for children and for people with respiratory conditions. Those at risk should make arrangements to be in safe, air-conditioned settings.

The municipality offers four cooling centers during heat-sensitive times:

• Parsippany Community Center, 1130 Knoll Rd., Lake Hiawatha (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.)
• Parsippany Main Library, 449 Halsey Rd,. Parsippany (9 a.m. - 9 p.m.)
• Lake Hiawatha Library, 68 Nokomis Ave., Lake Hiawatha ( 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.)
• Mt. Tabor Library, 31 Trinity Park, Mt. Tabor (10 a.m. - 9 p.m.)

If you don't have access to air conditioning, also consider visiting a friend who does or hitting a movie theater or indoor mall.

While coping with the heat, keep these safety tips from the Centers for Disease Control in mind:

• Avoid hot foods and heavy meals—they only make you feel hotter.
• Drink plenty of water and avoid beverages that include alcohol or caffeine, which are dehydrating.
• Dress babies and older kids in cool, loose clothing and shade their heads and faces with hats or umbrellas. Don't forget sunscreen.
• Limit sun exposure during midday hours, especially in areas of great exposure.
• Do not leave infants, children or pets in a parked car.
• Provide plenty of fresh water for your pets, and leave the water in a shady area.
• Check on the elderly and temperature-sensitive people to ensure they are in air conditioning and have plenty of water.

And if you, like many, have had it with the brutal heat, remember that it is temporary. We are only a few weeks away from fall and its crisp, cool days.