An Excessive Heat Warning has been issued for the Boston area, lasting from Sunday, June 22 at 11 AM through Tuesday, June 24 at 8 PM. Temperatures are expected to soar into the 90s, coupled with high humidity that will intensify the heat.
In response to the extreme conditions, Boston University (BU) is opening several cooling centers from Sunday through Tuesday, providing refuge for summer program students and members of the BU community. The designated locations and their hours of operation are as follows:
– Questrom School of Business Lobby, 595 Commonwealth Avenue: 7 AM – 10 PM
– Duan Family Center for Data and Computing Sciences Lobby, 665 Commonwealth Avenue: 7 AM – 10 PM (Card Access after 7 PM)
– George Sherman Union, 775 Commonwealth Avenue: 7 AM – Midnight
– Howard Thurman Center for Common Ground Lobby, 808 Commonwealth Avenue: 9 AM – 5 PM (Monday & Tuesday)
– 522 Park Drive Basement Lounge (South Campus Residents Only), 522 Park Drive: 24 hours (Note: inaccessible to those with mobility impairments; students with accessibility concerns should use the GSU location)
For summer program residents:
– Claflin Hall, Basement Rooms B11B and B11C, 273 Babcock St: 24 hours
– Rich Hall, Room 110 – Cinema Room, 277 Babcock St: 24 hours
– Sleeper Hall, Rooms 210A, 210B, and 212, 275 Babcock St: 24 hours
BU urges students, faculty, and staff to take necessary precautions to guard against heat-related illnesses. It is advisable to avoid strenuous outdoor activity from 10 AM to 3 PM and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. When outside, seek shaded areas, wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothing, and apply sunscreen.
For further assistance, BU community members experiencing heat-related emergencies are encouraged to contact Boston University Police at 617-353-2121 on the Charles River Campus or 617-358-4444 on the Medical Campus; off-campus emergencies should be directed to 911.
As an essential reminder during these heat waves, ensuring access to cooling centers and promoting hydration can help maintain community health and safety. It reflects a proactive approach from BU to care for its community during extreme weather conditions. Staying informed and prepared can make a significant difference in ensuring well-being in the sweltering summer heat.