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Agencies brace for warming temperatures in Charlotte

By Stephanie Coueignoux
By Stephanie Coueignoux

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — This week, the heat index could reach into the triple digits. It's the hottest weather Charlotte has seen since 2012.
 
Sandy Newman remembers that summer all too well: "I remember it was excruciatingly hot."
 
Wayne Broom, director of Charlotte Mecklenburg Emergency Management, said his agency is prepared for this round of heat.

"We have plans and protocol that can be activated at a moment's notice," Broom said.
 
Channel 9 asked for more details that plan. Broom said they are currently revising their severe weather plan, so they are not making it public.
 
Broom said once the heat index goes over 100 degrees, they will open cooling centers.
 
They're also bringing more organizations on board to provide hot-weather relief.
 
Broom explained, "We're looking to bring in additional agencies that can provide assistance and resources."
 
The elderly are especially susceptible.
 
According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, since 2011 there have been 28 heat-related deaths in North Carolina.
 
Sixty-four percent of those who died were between 77 and 86 years old.
 
Even those who aren't at high risk say they're still concerned.
 
Megan Huggins recently moved from Washington State and says her family isn't used to this heat. "This is like sweltering! I don't know what the temperature is, but it's hot!"
 
Huggins says she's not taking any chances when it comes to her kids: "I guess we'll have to stay inside."
 
Charlotte Mecklenburg Senior Centers are giving away fans to qualified residents.
 
In order to qualify, you must have a valid ID with a Mecklenburg County address.
 
You must also be at least 60 years old, or be disabled.
 
You can pick up a free fan at the three senior centers listed below:
 
Tyvola Senior Center
2225 Tyvola Road
Charlotte, NC 28210
 
Shamrock Senior Center
3925 Willard Farrow Drive
Charlotte, NC 28215
 
North Mecklenburg Senior Center
The Solid Rock Christian Church
16601 Old Statesville Road
Huntersville, NC 28078

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