Allegheny County issues code red heat advisory due to impending heat wave
The activation is based on the National Weather Service and Centers for Disease Control's HeatRisk tool, which considers how unusual and prolonged the heat is for this time of year, as well as the potential for serious health impacts, according to a provided news release from county officials.
"We've always responded to heat emergencies, but this year we're being more systematic," said Erin Dalton, Director of the Allegheny County Department of Human Services. "Senior centers will now more consistently extend their hours on Code Red days, and we'll be assessing conditions to potentially expand overnight shelter when extreme heat persists into the night. This pilot approach will help us learn what works best to keep people safe."
Residents are encouraged to check on neighbors, friends, and family, especially those who are older or medically vulnerable.
Allegheny County Emergency Services is reminding residents that heat is the leading weather-related cause of death nationwide, surpassing the fatalities caused by floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, and lightning.
Tips to keep yourself safe during extreme heat include drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated, even if you are not thirsty; keeping cool by using wet towels, putting feet in cool water, and taking cool showers; spend as much time as possible in cool or air-conditioned buildings; staying out of the sun during the hottest part of the day; wear sunscreen and hats with other loose-fitting clothing; and never leave pets or children in vehicles.
Cooling centers opening
In response to the forecasted temperatures, CitiParks will open six cooling centers on Sunday, June 22, through Wednesday, June 25.
When operating as a cooling center, senior centers will welcome residents of any age. The Department of Human Services is also taking additional actions, including outreach to older adults, children, and people experiencing homelessness, in coordination with the City of Pittsburgh and other municipalities, according to a news release.
On Sunday, cooling centers will be open from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. From Monday through Wednesday, the centers will operate from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
A full list of operational cooling centers is below.
Beechview Healthy Active Living Community Center
1555 Broadway Avenue
Pittsburgh, Pa. 15216
Brighton Heights Healthy Active Living Community Center
3515 McClure Avenue
Pittsburgh, Pa. 15212
Greenfield Healthy Active Living Community Center
745 Greenfield Avenue
Pittsburgh, Pa. 15217
Homewood Healthy Active Living Community Center
7321 Frankstown Road
Pittsburgh, Pa. 15208
Sheraden Healthy Active Living Community Center
720 Sherwood Avenue
Pittsburgh, Pa. 15204
South Side Healthy Active Living Community Center
12th and Bingham Streets
Pittsburgh, Pa. 15203
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
27 minutes ago
- Yahoo
The 6 Best Antioxidant-Rich Fruits to Reduce Inflammation, According to a Dietitian
Reviewed by Dietitian Maria Laura Haddad-Garcia Key Points Oxidative stress occurs when excess free radicals damage cells and raise the risk of chronic disease. Antioxidants from fruits like blueberries, pomegranates and cherries help counteract this damage. Eating a variety of antioxidant-rich plant foods supports overall health and reduces inflammation. There are many unavoidable realities of life, and stress is one of them. But not just any kind of stress—oxidative stress! This form of stress arises when too many highly unstable molecules, called free radicals, bombard your cells. The body normally produces these molecules in small quantities as a byproduct of metabolism. But, in your day-to-day life, you might often be exposed to excessive amounts of toxins, air pollution, pesticides and sunlight that increase free radical production. Couple these environmental factors with a poor diet, alcohol, smoking, excessive exercise, poor sleep and certain medications, and free radical formation increases even more. Pictured Recipe: Bircher Muesli When left unchecked, free radicals can damage your cells and DNA. As a result, long-term oxidative stress can lead to chronic inflammation and disease. But the good news is that there is a solution to oxidative stress. And it requires the consumption of—you guessed it—antioxidants! One way to ensure you are getting enough antioxidants in your diet is to consume a variety of delicious fruits. Below are six of the best antioxidant-rich fruits that can help you ward off oxidative stress and inflammation. 1. Blueberries Blueberries take the blue ribbon as one of the top antioxidant-rich fruits on the list. And rightfully so! They're packed with phytochemicals like anthocyanins, flavonoids, phenolic acids and stilbenes that work together to protect your health. But where does this tiny fruit store such a large amount of antioxidants? The answer is their deep blue outer skin—home to those anthocyanins, the powerful, anti-inflammatory compounds behind their vibrant hue. These, along with other compounds, help fight inflammation, protect the brain and may even lower cancer risk. Research has found that people who regularly consume anthocyanin-rich blueberries have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, along with improved weight management and brain functioning. These berries contain up to 9 millimoles of antioxidants in a single 3.5-ounce serving, What better way to reap the many health benefits associated with blueberries than by enjoying this Blueberry Baked Oatmeal? 2. Pomegranate Slice into a pomegranate's smooth, thick skin, and you will find incredible chambers of juicy, ruby-red seeds (aka arils) that burst with flavor and antioxidants. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, research has linked pomegranates to lower levels of certain biomarkers tied to chronic conditions such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some cancers. These health benefits are primarily due to an antioxidant known as punicalagin. In lab and animal studies, it has shown potential to slow cancer cell growth, trigger the destruction of cancer cells and influence pathways related to heart disease, diabetes, inflammation and Alzheimer's. While these early findings are promising, more human research is needed to know if the same benefits hold true. Pomegranates contain up to 9 mmol of antioxidants per 3.5 ounces—similar to blueberries. These antioxidant-rich jewels can be enjoyed as a topping on yogurt, or try this Pomegranate, Cranberry & Brie Bruschetta. 3. Tart Cherries These tart stone fruits contain a wide variety of beneficial compounds that may support overall health. Studies show tart cherries have a mild anti-inflammatory effect that becomes stronger with regular consumption. Because of this, they may work better for preventing inflammation before it starts rather than treating it once it's already causing problems. Adding them to your diet over the long term—whether fresh, frozen, dried or as juice—may help support a healthier inflammatory balance in the body. But the cherry on top of the cake is that research suggests tart cherries may improve sleep quality. According to one review study, two small trials had older adults drink a glass of tart cherry juice twice a day for two weeks. Sleep was tracked with surveys, sleep studies and blood tests. The results? Higher melatonin levels, less inflammation and better sleep—even in that short time. The same review noted that for muscle recovery, fresh or frozen tart cherry juice seems to work better than concentrate or powdered versions. These benefits are linked to tart cherries' unique mix of polyphenols, melatonin, carotenoids and vitamins E and C. Tart cherries contain up to 7 mmol of antioxidants per 3.5-ounce serving. You can include this nutrient-packed fruit in your diet by preparing this Anti-Inflammatory Cherry-Spinach Smoothie. 4. Blackberries Though commonly called berries, blackberries are technically clusters of tiny drupelets, each packed with protective plant compounds. They're rich in vitamins A and C, carotenoids, sterols, terpenoids and phenolic compounds—offering powerful health benefits in a naturally low-calorie package. Research shows that blackberries are especially high in antioxidants that can help block the release of pro-inflammatory molecules linked to certain health conditions. Of those antioxidants present in blackberries, anthocyanins and terpenoids are the most prominent ones. One 3.5-ounce serving of blackberries contains 6 mmol of antioxidants. If you are looking to add these gems to your fruit rotation, try this delicious Blackberry Crisp. 5. Goji Berries Native to Asia, goji berries have a distinctive sweet yet tangy flavor—similar to cranberries or cherries. These oblong, bright orange-red berries get their vivid color from carotenoids, the most common being zeaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant important for healthy vision. Research suggests goji berries may help lower blood sugar, improve cholesterol, support immune function, and provide anti-aging benefits, although most research is small or short-term, so more studies are needed to confirm these effects. A 3.5-ounce serving contains about 4 mmol of antioxidants. Try tossing these tiny but mighty berries into your next batch of trail mix to up your antioxidant intake. 6. Raspberries With their velvety red skin and floral aroma, raspberries are loaded with protective antioxidants that ward off disease. Most of their antioxidant power comes from anthocyanins, ellagitannins and vitamin C, which work together with other plant compounds to boost their health benefits. Laboratory research has revealed that the compounds in raspberries may combat oxidative stress and inflammation that promote the development of diseases like cancer, but much more research in humans is needed to know for sure. One 3.5-ounce serving of raspberries contains 4 mmol of total antioxidants. Consider making Muesli with Raspberries when you are in need of an antioxidant boost. Our Expert Take Whether you are looking to protect your cells from harmful free radicals, find relief from chronic inflammation, or aid in disease management, antioxidants are powerful compounds that can significantly improve your health. Although red and purple fruits like blueberries, pomegranates, tart cherries, blackberries, goji berries and raspberries have the highest quantities, antioxidants are also abundant in various plant foods. From fruits to vegetables, nuts and legumes, you can obtain all the antioxidants you need when you consume a balanced diet. Read the original article on EatingWell
Yahoo
28 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Expert issues warning over harmful impacts of common landscaping mistake: 'Easy way to kill your tree'
The temptation to add a ton of mulch at the base of a tree is a common problem for many gardeners, even professionals. But experts agree that adding a mountain of mulch, better known as a mulch volcano, is a quick way to do your tree more harm than good. Treecologist Basil Camu of Leaf & Limb (@leaflimb) explained the problem in an Instagram video, saying, "This is a really easy way to kill your tree." "Tree trunks aren't meant to be wet; they're meant to stay dry," he pointed out. Mulch does trap moisture, but a mulch volcano can trap too much moisture and lead to fungal infections and other diseases as well as prevent water and oxygen from reaching the roots, causing them to wrap themselves around the tree and strangle it, according to The Kansas City Star. Camu also provided an example of a healthier mulching option, showing a tree with a light layer of mulch and noting that it could use ground cover. He said this is comparable to what naturally occurs in a forest, with "a nice pile of arborist wood chips all the way out to the edge of the tree's canopy." "I would love to add a bunch of native shrubs and trees," Camu added, noting a complete understory of plants can help support the life in tree canopies. Native plants in general are the best option for your yard, saving you time and money on maintenance and resources such as water and mulch. Purchasing mulch can really add up, and using it ineffectively in a mulch volcano wastes your money. Using native plants and mulch also contributes to soil health, adding nutrients as they break down, making them a healthier option than fertilizer or other additives. People in the comments were on board with ditching the mulch volcano. "How 'professional' commercial landscapers still do the mulch volcano is beyond me. They all need to be retrained," one person wrote. Another noted that mulch volcanoes are popular in their area and said: "Landscapers make money trucking in unnecessary mulch after blowing every leaf away, then they replace trees when they die. Double dipping!" What's the hardest thing about taking care of your yard? Mowing the lawn Controlling weeds Keeping pests at bay I don't have a yard Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
DOJ Tried To Get Names And Social Security Numbers Of Trans Kids
The Justice Department has demanded that a Philadelphia hospital hand over a broad swath of information related to gender-affirming care for minors, including individual patient names, dates of birth and Social Security numbers, according to a copy of a subpoena that became public in a court filing Monday. The DOJ issued a subpoena to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia in June. It requested doctors' emails, texts, social media and Zoom recordings dating to January 2020, long before any state legislature in the United States had passed a ban on gender-affirming care for transgender youth, The Washington Post first reported. Related: The subpoena was made public this week in a court filing by the Washington state attorney general's office. Washington State Attorney General Nicholas W. Brown sued the Trump administration in January to block two executive orders that tried to withhold federal funding from institutions that offered gender-affirming care. Related: Brown wrote in court documents that he included the subpoena to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia because President Donald Trump has 'only escalated' his attacks since a federal judge initially blocked Trump's efforts to curb youth gender care in March. Last month, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that the Justice Department had issued more than 20 subpoenas to doctors and clinics that it said 'mutilated children in the service of a warped ideology.' It was not clear at the time what information the government was seeking from these health care providers. DOJ did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The subpoenas were sent to health care institutions in both states where gender care has been banned and states that have shield laws protecting access to such care. The investigations, legal and health care experts told HuffPost, are part of the Trump administration's attempt to build a case to allege that medical providers may have violated criminal statutes and engaged in fraud. News of the subpoenas, along with the Supreme Court's decision to uphold Tennessee's law banning gender-affirming care in June, sowed chaos and confusion in hospitals around the country. At least 25 hospitals and health care networks across the United States have ended or restricted gender-affirming care services for trans youth since July, HuffPost found in an independent count. None of these hospitals are in the 26 states that have bans on care. Jacob T. Elberg, a former federal prosecutor specializing in health care, told The Washington Post that the government was using its authority 'to target medical providers based on a disagreement about medical treatment rather than violations of the law.' Elberg also noted that under federal privacy law, the DOJ must show that there is a legitimate law enforcement probe to account for information on patient identities. Alex Sheldon, the executive director of GLMA, an organization of LGBTQ+ health professionals, told HuffPost that the subpoenas are 'intended to send a chilling message to everyone, from patients to providers, that they are not safe, not even in the exam room. This is definitely not an element of law enforcement. It's a targeted political retaliation.' Related: While efforts to cull sensitive medical data are unprecedented by the federal government, they mirror the actions taken by Republican officials in Texas and Tennessee. In September 2022, Tennessee's attorney general, Jonathan Skrmetti, opened an investigation into the state's largest provider of pediatric gender care, Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Skrmetti requested private medical records of more than 150 patients who used TennCare, the state's Medicaid plan, as well as billing codes, queries into specific doctors and information about the hospital's volunteer program to pair trans youth with peer support from students and community members. Related: Skrmetti's investigation came one day after right-wing blogger Matt Walsh posted allegations on social media that Vanderbilt doctors 'castrate, sterilize, and mutilate minors.' Tennessee state Republicans later passed a ban on gender-affirming care for youth, citing Walsh's posts. The Supreme Court upheld Tennessee's ban on gender-affirming care in a decision this June. Several families of transgender youth had sued Skrmetti, claiming that the state law violated the families' constitutional protections. The conservative majority ruled that the law did not discriminate 'on the basis of transgender status.' Similarly, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton initiated investigations into out-of-state gender care providers. He alleged that those hospitals were providing care to minors from Texas, where such care is prohibited. Earlier this month, a coalition of 16 states and Washington, D.C., filed a lawsuit to try to block the federal government's investigations into hospitals across the U.S. 'The federal government is running a cruel and targeted harassment campaign against providers who offer lawful, lifesaving care to children,' New York Attorney General Letitia James, who led the states in the suit, said in a statement. 'This administration is ruthlessly targeting young people who already face immense barriers just to be seen and heard, and are putting countless lives at risk in the process.' Kid Rock Goes Into Meltdown Mode After Getting Punked By Gavin Newsom's X Account White House Spokesperson Totally Loses It Over Rock Star's Trump Takedown Trump Administration Quietly Blocks Gender-Affirming Care For Adults On Federal Health PlansSolve the daily Crossword
