Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, August 13, 2026 —

Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation is introducing new technology aimed at enhancing the safety of outdoor sports activities during periods of extreme heat. The department is implementing the use of Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) devices across county fields in the Tampa-St. Petersburg and Sarasota areas.

These specialized devices are designed to measure heat stress in direct sunlight, taking into account temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation. This comprehensive measurement provides a more accurate assessment of the risk posed by heat compared to standard temperature readings alone. The WBGT index is a widely recognized standard for evaluating heat stress conditions.

The primary objective of deploying WBGT devices is to establish clear, science-based thresholds for determining when playing conditions are unsafe due to high temperatures. This initiative is intended to help prevent heat-related illnesses among athletes, coaches, and spectators participating in sports on county-managed fields.

Officials from Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation will utilize the data from the WBGT devices to make informed decisions regarding the postponement or cancellation of sports activities when heat conditions reach critical levels. The specific protocols and decision-making processes based on the WBGT readings are expected to be communicated to sports leagues and the public.

The implementation of this technology marks a proactive step by the county to address the growing concerns surrounding the impact of extreme heat events, which are becoming more frequent and intense in the region. By adopting WBGT monitoring, Hillsborough County aims to ensure a safer environment for all participants in its recreational sports programs.


Story summarized from the original created by Grant Palmer on www.wfla.com, see more information here.

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