NEWS | Biddeford bracing for intense heat

State emergency officials advise caution during extreme heat conditions; Biddeford announces cooling center locations.

By RANDY SEAVER | Editor

Biddeford residents are being warned about extreme heat temperatures that are expected to linger over southern Maine for the remainder of the work week.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), near record-breaking heat will be increasingly likely between Wednesday and Friday of this week.

The NWS predicts that temperatures will range in the 90s during this three-day period with heat indices up to 110-degrees in some areas.

According to the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), extreme heat is ranked the number one weather-related killer in the United States and globally, claiming more lives on average each year than hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and lightning combined.

“Everyone should have a plan to stay cool during periods of extreme heat,” said MEMA Director Pete Rogers. “Limit strenuous outdoor activities, take frequent breaks, stay hydrated, and seek air conditioning inside or shade outside whenever possible. If severe storms develop, move indoors immediately and take shelter.”

State officials say the first week of high heat and high humidity often takes people by surprise.

“Whether you’re outside because of the work that you do or to enjoy the holiday festivities this week, it’s important to take precautions against overheating, sun exposure and sun stroke, and dehydration,” said Maine CDC Director Dr. Puthiery Va.

Biddeford Cooling Center Locations

July 1, 2 and 3

Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Center, 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., 6 p.m. to- 7 a.m.; 35 South Street

Bon Appetit Community Meal Program, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.; 19 Crescent Street

July 1 & 2

McArthur Library, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; 270 Main Street

July 1

J. Richard Martin Community Center, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; 89 Alfred Street

Biddeford City Hall, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.; 205 Main Street

Stay cool, control costs

Central Maine Power (CMP) is offering tips and suggestions about how to stay cool and control cooling costs.

When temperatures rise, so does electricity use.

“With the potential for dangerous heat, we want to remind our customers to stay safe and prepare now,” said Linda Ball, CMP’s president.

Ball said CMP offers its customer free digital tools to help manage energy use and stay in control of costs.

“In the field, our hardworking crews are preparing to respond safely and quickly through the forecasted hot weather to maintain reliable service for our customers,” Ball said. “This includes coordinating with local communities to ensure cooling centers that open are identified and prioritized.”

CMP is offering the following suggestions to help residents stay cool and manage the expense of increased electricity consumption.
Clean or replace air filters regularly to improve airflow and efficiency.
Clean vents annually to improve system performance.
Check for insulation gaps and seal air leaks to keep cool air inside.
Close curtains, blinds, or shades during the hottest parts of the day.
For heat pumps, maintain a consistent temperature rather than frequently adjusting settings.

CMP offers free digital tools such as:

Usage Alerts – Customers can sign up through their online account to receive weekly updates via text, phone, or email showing weekly energy use and estimated costs. Customers can also set a usage or dollar target and receive an alert if the target is exceeded.
Energy Manager – This tool provides daily energy usage data, breaks down usage by category (such as heating, lighting, and cooking), and compares usage with similar households to help customers make informed decisions.

USE CAUTION

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services recommends the following tips to protect yourself, loved ones, and neighbors during periods of high heat:

Keep cool outside: If you have to be outdoors, stay out of the sun as much as possible (or shift your activities to the early morning or evening, as long as the air quality is good), take frequent breaks from activity, and wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing, a hat, and sunscreen.

Stay hydrated: Drink more fluids than usual, even if you don’t feel thirsty, and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks if possible. Check with your doctor first if you take water pills or diuretics.

State officials are also encouraging residents to check on family, neighbors and friends or anyone without access to air conditioning.

NOTE: This story will be updated as more information becomes available

Local Journalism Thrives When Community Stands Behind It

PLEASE DONATE TO SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM

STAY CONNECTED | SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE TODAY