Intense heat and humidity create dangerous conditions

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- The dog days of summer are upon us, and Mother Nature has decided to mark the occasion with a dose of extreme heat and humidity.

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Providence, Kent and Washington counties from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Temperatures are expected to get up to the mid-90s and that plus the humidity, also known as the heat index, will make it feel like its between 100 and 105 degrees outside.

• Interactive: Summer Heat Safety Tips
• Forecast: When will the heat break?

To help Rhode Islanders cope with the heat, various cooling centers will be open Tuesday and Wednesday at various times and locations.

• Cooling Centers: Click here for a complete list

RIPTA has instituted its Air Quality Alert Program , put in place to reduce harmful pollution and keep the air cleaner. On any day the program is running, it's free to ride regular RIPTA bus.

For those looking to cool off in the ocean, be sure to take the necessary precautions both while in the sun and in the water.