2 Die from Extreme Heat in Lehigh County

The spring heat wave the Lehigh Valley is currently experiencing has claimed at least two lives, and more people may be in danger, Lehigh County Coroner Dan Buglio said Wednesday.

Buglio issued a statement about the dangers of hyperthermia after his office determined that two men in their 70s died Tuesday after they were exposed to extreme heat conditions in their homes. According to the report issued by Buglio’s office, one of the men was a 78-year-old Washington Township resident, and the other a 76-year-old Allentown resident.

Both deaths have been ruled accidental.

Buglio noted that his office is committed to transparency, and said that although he is withholding the names of the decedents, he wants to make the public aware of how the current high temperatures can quickly lead to tragic outcomes.

“I encourage everyone to remain mindful of the dangers associated with extreme heat,” he said. “Each year, heat-related illnesses and deaths occur, some of which are preventable.”

“Please check on vulnerable family members, friends and neighbors, stay hydrated and ensure living spaces remain adequately cooled,” he added. “A simple phone call, visit or welfare check can make a significant difference and may save a life.”

Tuesday’s high temperature in Allentown was 94 degrees. The low temperature at Lehigh Valley International Airport was a record-setting 65, which was the highest low temperature recorded since record-keeping began nearly a century ago.

Monday’s high temperature was also 94–about 20 degrees above average–and Wednesday’s high is expected to be around 90 degrees. However, with temperatures forecast to fall significantly and wet conditions returning starting Thursday, relief is in sight. By Saturday highs in the 50s are possible, according to the latest Lehigh Valley forecast from the National Weather Service, and overall the Memorial Day holiday is likely to be cool and rainy.