Based on forecasts from the National Weather Service, the City of Cambridge is declaring a Heat Advisory starting Thursday, August 6, 2026. The City is anticipating at least three consecutive days of sustained temperatures at or greater than 90 degrees based on current forecasts.
Hot weather and extreme heat can cause serious illness and can even be life-threatening. Heat-related illnesses, like heat stroke and dehydration, can occur. There is an increased risk for heat-related illness in high-risk populations including older adults and young children, people with chronic medical conditions, unhoused individuals, and those who work outside.
Residents are encouraged to plan ahead, stay hydrated and, whenever possible, spend time in air-conditioned places such as community spaces, public libraries, malls and movie theaters or in shaded areas while outside.
Cambridge Public Branch libraries will welcome people seeking to cool off during regular hours and will have water bubblers available. Branch hours and locations are outlined online and below:
Thursday
Main Library 9 a.m.- 9 p.m.
Boudreau 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.
Central Square 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Collins 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
O’Connell 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
O’Neill 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Valente 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday
Main Library 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Boudreau 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Central Square 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Collins 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
O’Connell 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
O’Neill 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Valente 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday
Main Library 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Central Square 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
O’Neill 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Valente 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday
Valente 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Residents are also encouraged to visit
pools and
parks with water features.
Outreach teams will be utilized to support the unhoused community during extreme heat. If you are concerned about a person who is unhoused, please call First Step at (617) 592-6895 or call 911 if the person is experiencing an emergency.
High temperatures and humidity in the summer can result in peak demand on New England’s electricity supply. Whenever possible, please take steps to reduce the energy use.
Visit
cambridgema.gov/heat for detailed information about how to stay safe in the heat.
