High Heat and Humidity Expected to Impact Most of State from Tuesday to Thursday with Heat Index Values in the High 90s and Low 100s
Governor Hochul Encourages New Yorkers to Visit Regional Cooling Centers, Stay Indoors and Check on Vulnerable Neighbors as Extreme Heat and Humidity Poses a Danger to Everyone, Particularly Elderly Populations and Small Children
Governor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers across the State to prepare for dangerous heat conditions beginning Tuesday and expected to last through Thursday as a combination of hot temperatures and moderate-to-high humidity levels are expected to cause heat index values in the 90s and potentially the low 100s in certain areas, including the New York City region.
On Tuesday, the threat of dangerously high heat will be downstate in New York City, Long Island, and the lower Mid-Hudson regions. By Wednesday, most of the state will be blanketed with high heat and humidity with temperatures hovering around 95 degrees. On Thursday, downstate regions will likely experience the most dangerous heat conditions, with heat index values currently expected to break the 100-degree mark.
"The next several days will bring extreme heat throughout the state with dangerous heat indices potentially reaching into the 100s," Governor Hochul said. "I am urging all New Yorkers to prepare for heat and humidity this week and to keep a close eye on the weather over the next couple of days. As New Yorkers, we take care of one another, so please don't forget to check on neighbors, especially seniors, those with young children, and people with disabilities."
New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, "The effects of high heat and humidity over the course of a few days create dangerous conditions that can lead to heat stress and illness. New Yorkers should do their best to stay indoors and stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. If you choose to exercise or have to work outside, try to do so in the early morning or evening hours when the sun is down, and temperatures are not as extreme."
"July is typically one of the hottest times of the year in our State, and as the temperature rises it is imperative that we become more vigilant about protecting our most vulnerable citizens from the extreme heat, in addition to keeping young children safe from the dangers of hot cars, trucks or vans," said New York State Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez who oversees the NYS Division of Consumer Protection. "To help save lives and thwart needless tragedies, I encourage all New Yorkers to learn a few important safety tips and to implement cautionary measures to ensure the wellbeing of the children in their care or any child they encounter in danger."
New Yorkers should monitor local weather forecasts for the most up-to-date information. For a complete listing of weather watches, warnings, advisories and latest forecasts, visit the National Weather Service website.
The New York State Department of Health also reminds New Yorkers that heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States. Heat-related deaths and illness are preventable, yet annually many people suffer from the effects of extreme heat. Some individuals are at a higher risk for heat-related illness than others. New Yorkers should learn the risk factors and symptoms of heat-related illness to protect themselves and those they love.
Symptoms of heat stroke include:
New Yorkers can learn more, including locations for cooling centers , at the dedicated webpage here .
Agency Preparations Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services' Emergency Operations Center is monitoring weather conditions, communicating with local emergency managers and will coordinate any response needs from local governments. The State's stockpiles are prepared to deploy assets to support localities in need.
Department of Public Service The New York State Department of Public Service (DPS) will be monitoring electric system conditions and overseeing utility response to any situations that may arise as a result of this week's extreme heat. DPS has been in direct contact with utility leaders to ensure they are preparing their systems for the extreme heat and will be tracking system conditions throughout the event. If necessary, DPS will activate the peak load reduction program for all New York State agencies; the New York Independent System Operator will activate their voluntary Emergency Response Demand Program to curtail load as necessary; and New York's utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available, as necessary, to engage in damage assessment, response, repair, and restoration efforts across New York State, for this heat event. Agency staff will track utilities' work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact.
Heat Tips Excessive heat is the leading cause of preventable, weather-related deaths each year, particularly among the elderly. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heat causes more than 600 preventable deaths in the United States every year. To help New Yorkers stay safe during excessive heat, follow the below guidance:
Be Prepared Taking precautions to avoid heat exhaustion is important, and this includes adjusting your schedule to avoid the outdoors during the hottest hours of the day and modifying your diet and water intake when possible.
Taking smart steps to reduce energy use, particularly during periods of peak demand, not only helps to lower the state's peak load but also saves consumers money when electricity is the most expensive. To reduce energy use, particularly during peak periods, the public is encouraged to take some of the following low- or no-cost energy saving measures:
Boaters should make sure to take proper safety precautions when enjoying the many boating opportunities New York State has to offer. The State Parks Marine Services Bureau reminds boaters to practice safe and responsible boating, including:
New York State Office of Children and Family Services Commissioner Sheila J. Poole said, "Everyone can help prevent hot car deaths, and it's especially urgent with the high temperatures we're experiencing across the state. First and most importantly, never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows open partially. And make it a habit to put something you need in the back next to your child's car seat: keys, a purse or briefcase, or your cell phone to help you remember to look before you lock. These two actions can save a child's life."
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett said, "Parents and guardians should never leave a child or a pet alone in a hot car even if the windows are rolled down as temperatures can soar to dangerous levels within minutes. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and take appropriate precautions because children and pets can develop illnesses such as hyperthermia or even die from heatstroke."
Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and Governor's Traffic Safety Committee Chair Mark J.F. Schroeder said, "As the temperatures rise across the state, I urge parents, caregivers, and pet owners to make checking the back seat of your vehicle for children and pets as part of your routine. It is easy to get distracted and forget about a child or pet sleeping or sitting quietly in the backseat. Please look before you lock. Cars heat up quickly so leaving a child or pet in a car for even a short time can be extremely dangerous, and when you're not using your car, remember to lock your doors so children are not tempted to climb into the vehicle to play."
People paddling canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards should know their abilities and take precautions when there are high or steady winds creating large waves, or when they are in strong currents. Paddlers in waters where there are motorboats should keep close to shorelines and out of main channels.
You can also find more information about where you can locate a Cooling Center near you and other helpful extreme heat-related advice, by visiting the New York State Department of Health's emergency weather webpage .
For more information about boating safety, including listings of boating safety courses, and marine recreation in New York State, click here .
Summer heat can lead to the formation of ground-level ozone, a major component of photochemical smog. DEC and DOH will issue Air Quality Health Advisories when DEC meteorologists predict levels of pollution, either ozone or fine particulate matter, are expected to exceed an Air Quality Index value of 100. Information about the Air Quality forecast for New York State can be found here .
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