Sophia Schmidt

Thirty-two libraries and rec centers will have extended hours through Saturday so people can cool off. Utility shutoffs will be paused as well.

Pay attention to emergency alerts, don’t drive into floodwaters, and get to higher ground if possible.

Emergency management officials plan to use 13 libraries and 21 rec centers as cooling centers this summer.

The storm behind the deadly Bucks County flood dumped about a month’s worth of rain in two hours. It’s the sort of deluge scientists say climate change could make more common.

“These people did not drive into high water,” said Fire Chief Tim Brewer. “They were caught.”

A model ordinance released by PennFuture aims to limit impacts like truck traffic and increased stormwater runoff.

Drought declarations are not just based on rain. They also consider soil moisture, stream flow, and groundwater, which tends to lag behind rain.

Every four years, PECO makes a plan to buy electricity for its customers. Climate activists want the utility to do something different the next time around.

“Food waste from our rec centers becomes high-quality compost, adding valuable nutrients back into city soils,” one official said.

Projects addressing heat, flooding, air pollution, litter, food insecurity, or other issues could be eligible.

Community gardens on tax-delinquent land with privately held liens are considered particularly at risk for development.

The celebrated Bright Solar Futures program went on, but without its key hands-on element.