Heat in Chester, Pennsylvania

The first run of excessive heat and humidity of the summer season occurred during the work week of June 23rd across Philadelphia and its suburbs. The highest temperatures and heat indices occurred on the 26th. This was a marked contrast from the unseasonably cool and wet June prior to this week. Temperatures and moisture levels eased after a cold front moved through the region during the day on the 27th. There were three heat related deaths reported, two in Philadelphia and one in West Chester (Chester County). In all three cases windows were found closed and the persons either had no air conditioning or it was unplugged. The room temperature of the dead gentleman found in West Chester was over 90 degrees. During excessive heat events the Philadelphia Corporation for the Aging opens a heat hot line. Outreach programs are initiated to help those in the city who are most at risk. Highest temperatures included 100 degrees at the Franklin Institute within Philadelphia, 97 degrees at the Philadelphia International Airport, 96 degrees in West Chester (Chester County), 93 degrees in Doylestown (Bucks County) and 92 degrees in Pottstown (Montgomery County).