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Heat Advisory, Code Red Air Quality Alert In Effect Thursday

BALTIMORE (WJZ) - A heat advisory is in effect for Baltimore and much of the surrounding area until 7 p.m. today.

Air quality alerts are also in effect for much of the state.

WJZ Meteorologist Tim Williams says the average high for this day is 87. At noon, it was 93 degrees at BWI airport, with dew points making it feel even hotter. In many places, it feels like more than 100 degrees.

Baltimore Health Commissioner Dr. Leana Wen has issued a code red heat advisory for Baltimore City through Sunday, July 23, as the heat index is expected to be between 101 and 104 degrees.

Meanwhile, the annual Artscape festival is scheduled for this weekend. Dr. Wen warns festival-goers to be prepared for the heat.

"Heat is a silent killer and a public health threat, particularly for the young, the elderly and those in our city who are the most vulnerable," Dr. Wen said in a release. "As Baltimore prepares for a fun weekend with one of the nation's largest free arts festivals, it is important for all residents to protect against hyperthermia and dehydration. Please be cautious and remember to stay cool and hydrated."

A code red alert is declared when heat is "severe enough to present a substantial threat to the life or health of vulnerable Baltimore citizens."

The following cooling centers will be open starting today from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.:

• Northern Community Action Partnership Center
5225 York Road, (410) 396-6084
• Southern Community Action Partnership Center
606 Cherry Hill Road (inside the shopping center 2nd floor), (410) 545-0900
• Northwest Community Action Partnership Center
3939 Reisterstown Road, (443) 984-1384
• Southeastern Community Action Partnership Center
3411 Bank Street, (410) 545-6510
• Eastern Community Action Partnership Center
1400 E. Federal Street, (410) 545-0136
• Shoprite Howard Park, 4601 Liberty Heights Ave, 21207, will be open as a community cooling center during their regular hours
• Baltimore City Recreation and Parks will extend pool hours

The following senior centers will be open today from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.:

• Waxter Center for Senior Citizens: 1000 Cathedral Street, (410) 396-1324
• Oliver Center: 1700 Gay Street, (410) 396-3861
• Sandtown-Winchester Senior Center: 1601 N. Baker Street, (410) 396-7724
• Hatton Center: 2825 Fait Avenue, (410) 396-9025
• John Booth: 2601 E. Baltimore St., (410) 396-9202
• Zeta Center: 4501 Reisterstown Rd., (410) 396-3535

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