Aroostook County may see its hottest day in nearly a year tomorrow.
The National Weather Service forecasts temperatures ranging from 89 to 91 degrees in many parts of The County on Thursday.
If the mercury inches just a degree higher, it could break records that have stood for more than a decade. Caribou and Presque Isle set July 2 highs of 91 in 2014, according to weather service data. Fort Kent’s anticipated high of 89 would tie its 1997 record for the same day.
Elsewhere in Aroostook, Frenchville is predicted to reach 89 degrees tomorrow, 6 degrees shy of its record of 95 set in 1956. Houlton could reach 91, but its all-time high for the day was 93 in 2014.
Farther south, Bangor also stands to break its record high of 93 set in 1941, with temperatures forecast to reach 96 on Thursday.
Though northern Maine should cool off somewhat by Saturday, the first seasonal bout of heat can leave people unprepared. Forecasters predict dewpoints from 67 to 69, which means the air will feel excessively humid.
Hot and humid weather challenges the body’s ability to cool itself, according to the weather service. People can also lose excessive fluid or salts from sweat or not drinking enough, which can lead to heat-related illnesses.
People should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, avoid being out in direct sun from late morning through midafternoon, wear light-colored clothing and a hat, the American Red Cross advises. Anyone experiencing nausea or dizziness should head someplace cool as soon as possible and call 911.
For those who have nowhere cool to go, the Aroostook County Emergency Management Agency lists several communities that will offer cooling centers where people can get out of the heat.
Among them, the Portage Lake Town Hall, 20 School St., will be open from Wednesday through Saturday, 24 hours a day. The space can accommodate up to 75 people. No meals will be provided but the facility has a microwave. Call 207-435-4361 for information.
Homeless Services of Aroostook in Presque Isle will offer respite at 160 Airport Drive from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Friday. The space holds 20 people and water and snacks will be available. Call 207-762-6000 for information.
The Caribou Wellness and Recreation Center at 55 Bennett Drive will welcome people from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and can accommodate 120 people at a time. No meals will be offered. Call 207-551-5883 for information.
For updates and other locations, visit the Aroostook Emergency Management Facebook page or check in with the Maine Emergency Management Agency and search for Aroostook.