City of Philadelphia declares heat health emergency starting this Sunday
Repurposed from the City of Philadelphia Press Release:
In response to forecast maximum heat index values, Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson issued a Heat Health Emergency in Philadelphia. This designation begins at noon on Sunday, June 22, 2025, and is scheduled to end at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, though it may be extended if the forecast worsens.
A declaration of a Heat Health Emergency activates the City’s emergency heat programs, which include the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s (PCA) Heatline, cooling centers, home visits by special field teams, enhanced daytime outreach for people experiencing homelessness, and the City’s reminder to the public to safely check on older friends, relatives, and neighbors.
The PCA Heatline (215-765-9040) will be open between noon and 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 22, and 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. The hours and days of operation may be extended if the Heat Health Emergency is extended. The public is encouraged to call if they have questions about precautions they can take and detecting signs of heat stress. City Health Department nurses will be available to speak with callers about medical problems related to the heat.
“The Health Department declares a Heat Health Emergency when the temperature gets high enough that vulnerable people – especially our elderly neighbors and family members – are at an increased risk of getting sick or dying from the heat,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson. “The best way to protect our loved ones is to make sure they can get into air conditioning during the hottest part of the day. As always, we encourage Philadelphians to check on elderly friends and neighbors to make sure they’re safe and don’t need assistance. If you’re worried about someone’s health during the emergency, you can call the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s Heatline at 215-765-9040.”
People who do not have air conditioning are advised to seek relief from the heat by visiting friends or relatives who have air conditioning. The City will be opening a variety of alternate cooling sites that will be available for use by all Philadelphia residents looking to escape the heat.
Please check in on neighbors, friends, and family who may need help. Make sure they have:
- Access to air conditioning or a cool space
- Plenty of water to stay hydrated
- A way to get help if needed
Nighttime temperatures will also stay high, which increases the risk of heat-related illness.
Stay Cool:
- Stay in air conditioning at home or in a public space. Visit www.art-reach.org or call (267) 515-6720 for free or discounted indoor activities.
- Avoid the hottest part of the day, from about 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stay out of the sun and avoid strenuous activity if possible.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Even if you’re not thirsty, keep drinking water or juice.
- If you don’t feel well from the heat, call a doctor. Call 911 in an emergency.
Helpful Resources:
- PCA Helpline: (215) 765-9040
Get heat safety tips, information about fans and AC, and connection to other resources. - Utility Emergency Services Fund: (215) 814-6845
Call to learn about utility or housing assistance and help with benefits. - Office of Homeless Services: (215) 232-1984 or 911
If you see someone on the street who may need help.
More Information:
- Philadelphia Extreme Heat Guide: phila.gov/heat
- Printable flyers and brochures (available in multiple languages): https://bit.ly/PHPGuidance
