Since the dissipation of the months-long rain spell, Mother Nature has turned up the temperature for the area.

After this week, which has been cooler than others, the heat is expected to return in the days ahead.

Meteorologist Michael Colbert, of the National Weather Service in State College, said highs are forecasted to reach the low to mid 80s. He also said the average high for this time of year is about 78 degrees.

With higher temperatures comes concern for heat-related illness.

Colbert said, “For that, we look at the heat index which uses the humidity and temperature to determine how hot you feel,” he said. “It looks like the hottest will be about Wednesday afternoon; about 85-90 degrees is heat index.”

“It is going to be one of the hottest days so far. But it could certainly be worse,” the meteorologist said.

Butch Kreiner, of Bradford City Fire Department, said hydration is a must when dealing with the heat.

“The first thing you want to do is stay hydrated, water is always the best thing,” he said. “Stay in the shade and out of the direct sunlight. If it’s hot and humid outside, stay inside. Wear sunscreen and watch for signs of heat exhaustion.”

Kreiner added that one who stops sweating is in danger.

He said, “If you stop sweating and you’re hot to the touch, then you have heat stroke and that’s a condition that needs immediate medical treatment.”

Kreiner noted that the most vulnerable to heat-related illness are children and the elderly.