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LEWISTOWN -- The hottest day of the week may arrive today as the region remains under a heat advisory and temperatures climb into the upper 90s.
The National Weather Service in State College expects temperatures between 96 and 98 degrees Wednesday. High humidity could push the heat index above 100 degrees during the afternoon.
"Probably Wednesday," National Weather Service meteorologist David Martin said when asked which day would pose the greatest danger.
The advisory remains in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday. The heat and humidity will raise the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially for people who spend long periods outdoors.
The heat index measures how hot the air feels when humidity is combined with the actual temperature. High humidity slows the evaporation of sweat, making it harder for the body to cool itself.
Martin said residents with air conditioning should stay indoors when possible. Anyone who must work, exercise, or spend time outdoors should drink water and take frequent breaks.
"If you're outside, you can take breaks and stay hydrated," Martin said.
Older adults, young children, and people with chronic health conditions face a greater risk. Outdoor workers, athletes, and residents without air conditioning also should take extra precautions.
Wednesday's heat follows a Tuesday in which temperatures reached the mid- to upper 90s across the region. Overnight lows remained near 70 in some locations, offering little relief before the heat returned.
Warm overnight temperatures can increase the danger during an extended hot spell because homes and people have less time to cool down before the next afternoon's heat.
The weather service advises residents to schedule strenuous activity during the morning or evening. People working outside should wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and rest in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
According to the weather service, heat exhaustion can cause heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and cool or clammy skin. Anyone with those symptoms should move to a cooler place, drink water, and seek help if the condition doesn't improve.
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. The weather service says symptoms can include confusion, unconsciousness, and hot skin. Anyone suspected of suffering heat stroke needs immediate medical help.
Children and pets should never be left inside parked vehicles. Temperatures can rise quickly, even with the windows partly open.
Residents also should check on relatives, friends, and neighbors who live alone or lack air conditioning. People without a cool place to stay should visit an air-conditioned public building during the hottest part of the day.
Thursday will remain hot, though Martin said temperatures should fall a few degrees. Lower humidity may also make the air feel less oppressive.
Thursday's highs should reach the lower to mid-90s in Mifflin County, with slightly lower readings possible in Juniata County. Friday's highs should remain near 90.
The afternoon heat may still require caution Thursday and Friday, even after the advisory expires. Residents planning outdoor work or recreation should continue to carry water and take breaks.
More relief should arrive this weekend as highs fall into the 80s.
Martin said scattered storms may develop Saturday and Sunday, mainly during the afternoon and early evening. Widespread activity isn't expected, but any storm could bring heavy rain.
"Anytime you get a storm this time of year, it can come with heavy rain," Martin said.
Weekend highs should remain in the upper 80s, ending the worst of the midweek heat.
The timing and location of the storms remain uncertain. Residents with outdoor plans should continue checking the forecast because summer storms can develop quickly and affect only part of the region.
The most dangerous conditions are expected Wednesday afternoon, when heat and humidity will place the greatest strain on people outdoors.
Residents should limit strenuous activity, keep water nearby, and watch for signs of heat illness.