Jul 30, 2025 By Paul Paterra 3 min read

The latest heat wave is expected to last just one day longer before significantly cooler temperatures return to the region.

Meteorologist Andrew Kienzle of the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh said the temperature was expected to creep up from its high of 94 degrees Tuesday to 95 on Wednesday.

“We’re going to get a cold front in the area on Thursday with the high temperatures trimmed by about 10 degrees,” Kienzle said. “Heading into the weekend, they’ll fall about 15 degrees from where they are right now.”

Kienzle said Friday’s high is expected to reach 79 degrees and 81 on Saturday.

Even though there have been a number of 90-degree days this summer, Kienzle said it hasn’t been that much out of the ordinary.

“Right now, the average high is about 83 degrees, so we’re about 10 degrees above normal,” he said. “The average summertime high fluctuates between cooler temperatures and warmer temperatures. For the time period, it’s not incredibly abnormal, but it’s a little bit above normal.”

Meanwhile, there are a number of places throughout the three-county area where those without air conditioning can escape the oppressive heat.

Charleroi Fire Department at 328 Fallowfield Drive said anyone seeking relief from the heat can call the fire department and make arrangements, said Matt Prentice, fire captain.

Canonsburg Senior Center is another cooling center available during its hours of operation, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch is available for $2 for senior citizens and $6 for non-seniors if the center is given 24 hours’ notice.

According to the Washington County Public Safety Department, other available locations in Washington County include the fire departments of Bentleyville, Canton Township, North Strabane and South Strabane.

Others available are the Dunlevy Recreation Center, Marianna Borough Building, Morris Township Municipal Building, Center in the Woods in Brownsville, Thomas Campbell Satellite Center in Washington and Riverside Place in Charleroi as well as the following senior centers: Bethlehem-Center, Bentleyville, Burgettstown, Cross Creek in Avella, Washington, Claysville/McGuffey, Monongahela and Donora.

Sue Griffith, public information officer for the Fayette County Emergency Management Agency, said the senior centers in Uniontown and Connellsville are available, as well as the Salvation Army if needed. South Connellsville Fire Department is located at 1527 Pittsburgh St. and is expected to be open if necessary as well.

“No one has called us, but if the need should arise we will address it at that time,” Griffith said.

According to the American Red Cross, the best ways to deal with the heat include staying hydrated. Other tips include spending a few hours each day in air conditioning, staying in the shade when outside and wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.