Why is it so hot on the East Coast!!! Power companies are struggling to keep up with demand and people are struggling to stay hydrated and healthy. Meanwhile, thermometers are popping (watch out for that mercury splattering).

• In New York, temperatures reached 102 degrees by 3 pm on Tuesday. This broke the 101 degree record set in 1999. Records also melted in Philly, Baltimore (105 degrees), and DC.
• Electric companies recommend you set your air conditioners to 78 degrees to conserve energy. They also recommend running other appliances like dishwashers at night, when fewer people have their AC blasting.
• U.S. nuclear production rose to the highest level in at least 17 years, 98,740 megawatts, as the heat wave boosted demand for electricity.
• Heat this high is dangerous, especially for the elderly. Several deaths are already being blamed on the heat. Be sure to check up on your neighborhood's grandmas.
• Also watch out if you've got asthma. Heat makes air seem thicker and harder to breathe. It also thickens smog in urban areas.
• Temperatures this high are an urban nightmare: tar melts and roads buckle, street lights fizzle out, public transportation slows.
• ncreased water use means decreased water pressure, and also increased risk of water contamination. Sacrifice your lawn so that people can drink.
• Count your blessings-- the heat wave this summer in India meant temperatures as high as 120 degrees and many fatalities.

What can you do?

Protect others from sunstroke, heatsroke, and other heatwave afflictions. Make sure everyone is hydrated and that they are replenishing salt and minerals that they lose sweating.

Don't leave pets in the car. Temperatures can climb 20 degrees higher than the outdoor temp.

Apply sunscreen every two hours and avoid long exposure during midday hours.