MARTINSBURG – As dangerously high temperatures hit the Eastern Panhandle this week, several local sites are opening cooling centers as health officials urge residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses.
The National Weather Service is forecasting temperatures in the mid- to upper-90s through the week. Combined with high humidity, the heat index is expected to reach between 100 and 110 degrees during the afternoon and early evening, creating hazardous conditions across much of the region.
In Berkeley County, St. John’s Lutheran Church in downtown Martinsburg has once again opened a daytime cooling center, continuing a service it has provided during previous periods of extreme heat. The church, located at 101 W. Martin St., is offering an air-conditioned space where visitors can cool off, access restrooms and charge electronic devices. They’re open from 10 a.m. through 6 p.m. through Friday.
Community Cup Coffee in downtown Martinsburg has also invited residents to escape the heat, offering a welcoming, air-conditioned space and free water to anyone needing relief. The coffee shop said guests are welcome to stop in regardless of whether they make a purchase, while its regular food and beverage menu remains available.
In Jefferson County, the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management announced Tuesday that temporary cooling stations are available during normal business hours at the Ranson Civic Center and the Bolivar Community Center.
The facilities are intended to provide residents with a place to cool off, hydrate and escape the heat. Officials noted that both locations will be closed Friday for the Independence Day holiday but could reopen outside normal business hours if conditions warrant. The centers are not overnight shelters.
Emergency management officials are encouraging residents to prepare for the prolonged heat by stocking up on water and ice, fueling vehicles in case travel becomes necessary and identifying air-conditioned locations, such as libraries, shopping centers or community centers, where they can seek relief if needed.
Residents are also urged to stay hydrated, wear loose, lightweight clothing, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day and check on older adults, neighbors and others who may be vulnerable to the heat.
Officials emphasized that children, older adults and pets should never be left inside parked vehicles, where temperatures can become life-threatening within minutes.
Health officials warn that extreme heat can quickly overwhelm the body’s ability to cool itself, leading to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Symptoms of heat stroke include a body temperature above 103 degrees, hot, dry skin, a rapid pulse, dizziness, confusion and unconsciousness. Anyone showing signs of heat stroke should receive immediate medical attention.
Jefferson County officials said they will continue monitoring weather conditions throughout the week and expand response efforts if conditions worsen.
BY TOM MARKLAND tmarkland@journal-news.net
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