Things to Know About Elkridge Today: June 9

It could feel like 101 degrees today, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). While Thursday’s high is 97 degrees, the heat index—which takes humidity into account—will make it feel hotter. Evening temps could go down to 73, said the NWS, with a 40 percent chance of thunderstorms before 5 a.m.

There’s a heat advisory in effect from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Officials advise staying hydrated and inside as much as possible. 

The Maryland Department of the Environment has issued an air quality alert for Howard County today. That means pollution could become concentrated and unhealthy for children, the elderly, and people with asthma, heart issues or lung conditions. Officials recommend those groups avoid strenuous or outdoor activity.

Here are some heat safety tips from the Howard County Health Department:

• Don’t leave children or pets unattended in parked cars/other hot environment
• Check on elderly friends, family and neighbors who live alone
• Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Drink non-alcoholic and caffeine-free liquids, and increase your fluid intake
• Be aware of these signs of heat-related illness: feeling light-headed, having mild nausea or confusion, feeling sleepy or experiencing profuse sweating

If you’re trying to find someplace cool, the health department recommends senior centers and libraries. Click for hours of the and .