Boston declares heat emergency, as high temperatures and humidity hit

The city of Boston has declared a heat emergency for Wednesday through Friday as oppressive temperatures and humidity settles over Massachusetts.

Boston is expected to reach 93 degrees on Wednesday and near 90 on Thursday. The city declares heat emergencies when "feels like" temperatures are expected to hit 95 degrees or above. The National Weather Service predicts heat indexes could near 100 degrees both days.

A heat advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. on Thursday for much of southern New England as the weather service warns the high heat and humidity can cause heat related illnesses.

Just before 6 a.m., the agency reported 100% humidity at weather stations in Norwood, Bedford and Beverly. Measurements at Boston's Logan Airport charted 97% humidity.

Select Boston Centers for Youth and Families are open for cooling centers for those in need of a place to beat the heat. The city also directed residents to library branches, along with public pools and splash pads.