This heat dome is really on another level.
The city has smashed a high temp record, as the heat index soared to a preposterous 108 degrees on Wednesday amid the brutal mid-June heat wave.
The high temp of 98 degrees at Boston Logan International Airport broke the previous high temp record of 96 degrees on June 19, 1923.
The heat index spiked to 108 degrees due to the “combination of the hot temperatures and that sultry feel of the humidity out there,” said National Weather Service meteorologist Andrew Loconto.
The “dangerous heat and humidity” will continue through Thursday before more seasonable temperatures and not as humid weather returns later Friday into Saturday, according to the NWS.
Some thunderstorms on Thursday afternoon into the evening could help cool things down, Loconto said.
“There will be more cloud cover, but it will still be very hot and pretty darn muggy out there on Thursday,” he added.
The National Weather Service’s heat advisory for many parts of Massachusetts remains in effect until Thursday evening. Heat index values up to 104 are possible.
“Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses,” the NWS heat advisory reads.
“Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors,” NWS adds.
A break from the heat is expected on Friday and Saturday, with more tolerable temps in the low 80s for the Boston-area.
“That will be a welcome relief,” Loconto said. “It will still be pretty humid, but not nearly as hot.”
Gov. Maura Healey on Wednesday urged residents to do their best to “stay indoors and stay cool.”
“Hydrate as much as you can over the next few days,” Healey told reporters. “And look in on those who are vulnerable, in particular our elders, people with different conditions… make sure that you’re checking in on them.”
Cooling centers have been opened around the region amid the heat wave.
“Make sure you know where those cooling centers are, and just try to be as smart as you can,” Healey said.
Mayor Michelle Wu declared a heat emergency in Boston through Thursday. BCYF cooling centers are open at 14 community centers, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Other heat tips include: Rest often in cool, shaded areas; limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours; use sunscreen; wear protective, loose-fitting clothing, and hats; and never leave children and pets alone in cars.
