With a summer heat wave approaching, New York City is advising residents to take precautions.
Governor Cuomo today urged New Yorkers to prepare for another extended period of high heat and humidity expected to begin today and continue through the middle of the week. The city is expected to get hit with heat index values in the mid-90s to low 100s.
In addition, the National Weather Service predicts a front moving across the State later in the week may provide favorable conditions for severe weather such as thunderstorms. New Yorkers should monitor local weather forecasts for the most updated information. For a complete listing of weather watches, warnings, advisories and latest forecasts, visit the National Weather Service website.
“We are expecting another round of high heat and humidity to impact most of the State and continue through the middle of the week,” Governor Cuomo said. “I strongly urge all New Yorkers to take action to prevent heat-related illnesses or injury, especially young children, seniors and those with respiratory conditions who are vulnerable to high heat. Check on neighbors, limit outdoor activity, and stay safe.”
Heat indexes could reach up to 95 degrees or more in some locations during this stretch, and the highest heat index values will occur during the afternoon hours. Several Heat Advisories have been issued by the National Weather Service for locations across the State through Tuesday evening. Showers and thunderstorms, some strong, are likely later in the week for much of the State as a front passes through.
This period of hot weather will result in an increased risk of heat stress and heat-related illness. People who are susceptible to heat related illnesses—including young children, the elderly, those who exercise outdoors, those involved in vigorous outdoor work, and those who have respiratory diseases such as asthma—should take necessary steps to stay cool as temperatures rise.
Heat Tips
Excessive heat is the leading cause of preventable, weather-related deaths each year, particularly among the elderly. According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heat causes more than 600 preventable deaths in the United States yearly.
The following people are most at risk:
Elderly persons and small children are mostly affected
Persons who are overweight/obese
Persons on certain medications or drugs
Be Prepared:
Avoid strenuous activity and exercise, especially during the sun’s peak hours of 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Exercise and activity should be done in the early morning between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m.
Drink plenty of water and noncaffeinated beverages.
Stay out of the sun and try to cool off in an air-conditioned building for a few hours during the hottest part of the day. The sun heats the inner core of your body, resulting in dehydration. If air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor, out of the sunshine, or go to a public building with air conditioning
If you must go outdoors, wear sunscreen with a high sun protector factor rating, at least SPF 15 and a hat to protect your face and head. When outdoors, wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing. Cover as much skin as possible to avoid sunburn and over-warming effects of sunlight on your body.
Do not leave children, pets or those who require special care in a parked car or vehicle during periods of intense summer heat. Temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach over 140 degrees Fahrenheit quickly. Exposure to such high temperatures can kill within a matter of minute.
Make an effort to check on your neighbors during a heat wave, especially if they are elderly, have young children or have special needs. Make sure there is enough food and water for pets
