The eastern United States is enduring a second consecutive day of intense early-season heat, with temperatures soaring to record levels across the region. On Wednesday, several school districts were forced to adapt as classrooms became sweltering environments, prompting some to send students home or transition to remote learning.
School Closures and Remote Learning
The Philadelphia school district implemented remote learning for students at 57 schools, citing ongoing issues with inadequate air conditioning despite recent improvements. In Boston's Dorchester neighborhood, a high school set up fans, distributed bottled water, and relaxed uniform policies to allow students to wear shorts and T-shirts. Student Ariolainy Baez described the oppressive conditions inside the building, noting that the heat felt stifling during quizzes and exams.
Record Temperatures and Heat Advisories
The National Weather Service predicted another day of record heat from the mid-Atlantic to New England before a cold front ushers in rain later in the week. Tuesday saw daily high temperature records broken in Portland, Maine, at 92 degrees Fahrenheit (33 degrees Celsius), and Boston, at 96 degrees (35.5 degrees Celsius). Heat advisories remained in effect through Wednesday evening for parts of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.
Cooling Centers Opened in New York City
In New York City, officials opened cooling centers to provide relief for residents. Mayor Zohran Mamdani emphasized the importance of community support during extreme heat, drawing parallels to the city's response to cold winter days. The centers offer air-conditioned spaces for those without access to cooling at home.
Associated Press writer Holly Ramer contributed from Concord, New Hampshire.
