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NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — Hillsborough CountyAugust 14, 2026Hillsborough County

Hillsborough County deploys heat-monitoring technology at sports fields

Photo: ABC Action News (WFTS) — Hillsborough County

Hillsborough County has implemented wet bulb globe temperature meters at the Skyway Sports Complex to monitor heat conditions and regulate athletic activity. When heat levels reach a threshold of 92.1, officials require athletes to vacate the fields until conditions improve.

Public SafetySportsHeat SafetyHillsborough County
Read the full story at ABC Action News (WFTS) — Hillsborough County

Why It Matters

Athletes and coaches at county-managed sports facilities are now subject to mandatory practice suspensions and equipment restrictions based on real-time environmental data to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Key Facts

  • Hillsborough County is using wet bulb globe temperature meters to monitor heat, cloud coverage, and wind speed.
  • The meters calculate the rate of sweat evaporation to assess heat stroke risk.
  • A threshold of 92.1 has been established for mandatory field closures.
  • When the threshold is reached, officials require athletes to leave the field and seek shade.
  • Officials monitor conditions on an hourly basis once a closure is triggered.
  • The county may mandate longer rest breaks, limit practice duration, or restrict player equipment based on readings.
  • The program is currently a pilot at the Skyway Sports Complex.
  • County leadership plans to expand the technology to additional fields.

Who's Mentioned

locationHillsborough County“The local government implementing the heat monitoring program.”PersonMicah Collins“County official explaining the field closure procedures.”locationSkyway Sports Complex“The specific park where the pilot program is currently active.”