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WILKES-BARRE — The heat is on. And it’s going to stay on.
A blast of sultry summer air has descended on the region, and Wyoming Valley residents can expect it to endure through the weekend, at least.
Yes, we are officially having a heat wave — defined as three or more days with a high of 90 or higher, according to the National Weather Service.
The next four days will see highs of 90 and above, with Sunday’s forecast calling for a top temperature of 99, the NWS’ Binghamton office said Thursday.
Being summer, the temperatures should come as no surprise. Still, residents may want to take a few precautions to stay healthy or seek relief. Hydration and loose, cool clothing are a necessity for the warm weather, as is looking out for others in need:
• The very young and the elderly should stay in air-conditioned environments as much as possible.
• If you have to be outside doing strenuous activity, try to do it early in the day or in the evening, not during the hottest time of the day.
• No one should remain in sealed cars without air-conditioning, especially children, disabled persons, or pets.
“In recent years, excessive heat has caused more deaths than all other weather events, including floods,” said Guy Triano, CEO of the American Red Cross Eastern Pennsylvania Region.
Swimming pools
For those who don’t have access to a private swimming pool, there are at least two in the region to consider:
• The Kingston Community Swimming Pool is open Monday through Saturday from noon to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The price for a guest pass for a resident from noon to 5 p.m. is $8, while from 5 to 8 p.m. it’s $6. For a non-resident, from noon to 5 p.m. it is $10, and from 5 to 8 p.m. it’s $8.
The pool, which is on Lathrop Street, will be open until Aug. 19.
• The Forty Fort Community Pool, 1089 Wyoming Ave., is open noon to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.
Daily passes are $8 from noon to 8 p.m., and $5 from 5 to 8 p.m. Children under the age of 2 are free.