New Yorkers should prepare for several days of dangerous heat, with heat index values expected to top 100 degrees across much of the state through Friday.
The National Weather Service has issued Extreme Heat Watches, Extreme Heat Warnings and Heat Advisories for large portions of New York, including the Capital Region, Long Island, the Mid-Hudson Valley, the Mohawk Valley, New York City and the Southern Tier.
Some areas, including New York City, could see heat index values as high as 110 degrees through Friday. Much of the state is expected to experience heat index values of 105 degrees or higher, forecasters said.
Heat expected to peak Wednesday through Friday
The most dangerous conditions are expected from Wednesday through Friday, when high temperatures combined with oppressive humidity could push “feels like” temperatures into the triple digits across much of New York.
Heat and humidity will begin building Tuesday, with highs expected to exceed 90 degrees in parts of the state and reach the upper 80s in downstate communities, according to the Weather Service.
Warm overnight temperatures will provide little relief, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
New York City could reach 100 degrees
According to AccuWeather, New York City is expected to experience its sixth-worst heat wave since 2000, with temperatures in Central Park potentially reaching 100 degrees for the first time in more than a decade.
Forecasters also expect record-warm overnight lows and daily record highs. New York City could see three consecutive nights in which temperatures do not fall below 80 degrees, a rare occurrence.
The city’s extensive pavement, concrete and brick buildings absorb heat during the day and slowly release it overnight, creating an urban heat island effect that can make conditions dangerous — especially for people without air conditioning. Upper floors of brick buildings are particularly vulnerable because they retain heat long after sunset.
The last time Central Park reached 100 degrees was in July 2012. Long Island most recently recorded a 101-degree day on July 29, 2025. New York City’s all-time record high remains 106 degrees, set in Central Park on July 9, 1936, according to the National Weather Service.
How to stay safe during extreme heat
State officials recommend:
Protect pets from the heat
Pet owners should also:
Cooling centers and emergency alerts
Residents without air conditioning can call 211 to locate nearby cooling centers or heat shelters.
New Yorkers can also receive emergency weather alerts by texting the name of their county or New York City borough to 333111.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: NY heat wave brings triple-digit heat index through Friday: How hot will it get?
Reporting by Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team | USA TODAY Network
