Sharon now faces its first heat wave of 2012.

The National Weather Service in Taunton is forecasting a high temperature of 94 degrees on Friday.

Three straight days of 90 degrees or more is considered an official heat wave.

A list of Sharon cooling centers is here.

The Sharon Adult Center and Council on Aging has received one request for heat-related assistance, Executive Director Norma Simons Fitzgerald said today. The adult center responded, with help from the Friends of the Sharon Council on Aging, she said.

Fitzgerald also passed along this information from the National Institutes of Health.

Meanwhile, Norwood Hospital reported no increase in heat-related illnesses, but physicians still advised residents to stay out of the heat.

“In general, the best advice we can give people during this heat wave is to stay out of the heat, as much as possible, keep hydrated – water works best – and avoid strenuous exercise,” said Peter Dimatteo, MD, Emergency Department physician at Norwood Hospital. “This is especially true if you are on any kind of cardiac medication or antihistamines.”

Dimatteo also urged families and friends to check on anyone with chronic illnesses to help ensure that they are as cool and as comfortable as possible.

Friday's heat will bring a chance of thunderstorms during the day, with thunderstorms likely at night, the weather service reports on its website.

Sharon Patch is following this story, and will update it as information becomes available.

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-- Norwood Patch Editor Kelly Glista contributed to this report