NASHUA — The city is taking extra steps to ensure that local residents do not overheat.

Thomas Dwane, Nashua Parks and Recreation program manager, said the city pools will stay open tonight until 8:30 p.m. They were also open later on Monday and Tuesday because of the warm weather, according to Dwane, who said the pools typically close at 8 p.m. on weekdays. “We did this once during a hot spell last year and it seemed to be worthwhile,” he said. “We get the word out and families really seem to appreciate it.”

On an average day, about 100 people visit each of the three pools — Centennial Pool, Rotary Pool and Crown Hill Pool, said Dwane.

According to the National Weather Service in Boston, temperatures should reach near 90 degrees today, with a chance of strong to severe thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening hours.

The Nashua Senior Activity Center at 70 Temple St. is serving as a cooling station for anyone seeking relief from the humid and uncomfortable weather. It will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today for senior citizens or elderly residents who may not have air conditioning. Justin Kates, director of emergency management, said the city had not received any reports of heat-related incidents as of Tuesday afternoon.

“We are telling people who are hot to go to the mall or other stores with air-conditioning, or to stop by the library, which is a good place to cool off,” said Kates. “People should really be staying inside and out of the heat.”

Temperatures are expected to cool off by Thursday, with a high near 80 degrees later this week, according to the National Weather Service.

In the meantime, the state Department of Health and Human Services is reminding people to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses such as cramps, heat stroke and heat exhaustion by staying hydrated, wearing light clothing and limiting outdoor activity.

There are about 20 cooling centers throughout New Hampshire. To find a list of locations, call 211.

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Kimberly Houghton may be reached at khoughton@newstote.com.