Massachusetts heat advisory issued. What to know about the heat wave

It won’t be here for long, but the heat is on.

A heat advisory has been issued for Massachusetts until Wednesday, May 20, 8 p.m.

The average temperature for Tuesday, May 19, will be 94 degrees with a low of 73 degrees, according to the Weather Channel. Its forecasts stated Wednesday’s high will be 89 degrees with a low of 56 degrees.

The heat record for May 19 in Massachusetts is 90 degrees, according to National Weather Service. That means today could compete for the record books.

Heat Advisory map for Massachusetts

What is a heat advisory?

According to the National Weather Service online, “A heat advisory is issued for dangerous heat conditions that are not expected to reach warning criteria.

“Consider postponing or rescheduling outdoor activities, especially during the heat of the day. If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. Stay in a cool place, especially during the heat of the day and evening.”

What is a heat index?

A USA Today report explains, “How hot it feels depends on both temperature and humidity. As these rise, the body struggles to cool itself through sweating, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. The heat index combines both factors to gauge how these conditions affect our bodies.”

How is the Massachusetts drought

The state reported last week that drought conditions in Massachusetts had worsened since April. Will this dry weather spell make things worse?

Here’s what to know about the hot weather, and how it could affect drought conditions.

According to the state’s task force’s drought map released last week, here are the current conditions in the state:

Significant drought

Connecticut River Valley region: Was previously at mild
Central region: Was previously at mild
Northeast region: Was previously mild

Mild drought:

Western region: Was previously normal conditions
Southeast region: Was previously normal conditions
Cape Cod: Was previously significant drought conditions

Will the next two days of hot weather make drought conditions worse?

Francis Tarasiewicz, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service branch in Norton, said it could have minimal effect on current drought conditions.

“(The brief stretch of hot weather) won’t affect drought conditions significantly, but it could place some stress on plants,” Tarasiewicz told USA TODAY Network on Tuesday morning. “I don’t think it will make current conditions that much worse. Plus, there’s a cold front coming with some rain at the end of the week.”

This AccuWeather graphic shows how hot temperatures will be today, Tuesday, May 19.

When does the cold front arrive in Massachusetts?

Tarasiewicz told USA TODAY Network that Massachusetts will be hit with a “really strong cold front” at the end of the week.

“By Thursday we will be looking at temperatures in the low 70s, and on Friday, temperatures will be in the 60s,” Tarasiewicz said.

What’s more, Tarasiewicz explained that thunderstorms could pop up at any time over the next two days, with showers possible Thursday and Friday as well.

What are some tips for staying cool in the heat?

Here are some suggestions from Mass.gov:

Minimize time spent outdoors, especially during the hottest parts of the day. 
Stay hydrated by drinking lots of cool water every 15-20 minutes and avoiding alcoholic or caffeinated beverages. 
Do not leave pets outside for extended periods of time.
Seek out air-conditioned buildings like libraries and community centers to spend time in. Call 2-1-1 to find locations of cooling centers or shelters near you. 
Never leave children or pets in the car alone – the temperatures will rise to unhealthy levels within minutes. 
Check in on neighbors who may need assistance making a plan, including the homebound, elderly, or disabled.   
Dress for the heat by wearing a hat, light-colored, loose fitting, and breathable clothing.