It’s not taking long for summer to feel like summer, and then some.
Forecasters are cautioning that a weather system bringing oppressive heat and humidity will blanket New York from Sunday through at least Tuesday, potentially triggering heat advisories and warnings in the Southern Tier.
The National Weather Service Office in Binghamton said heat index values in the upper 90s to low 100s are forecast during the period with little relief at night due to elevated humidity.
The heat index measures how hot it actually feels when the relative humidity is combined with the actual air temperature.
Gov. Kathy Hochul said her administration “will be closely monitoring” the weather over the next week. Hochul encouraged New Yorkers to stay weather aware, watch their local forecast, and follow all local guidance.
“The number one cause of weather-related death is extreme heat, but preparation, communication and other precautions can save lives,” Hochul stated. “That is why we are deploying a whole of government approach to keep New Yorkers safe, working to protect our most vulnerable populations, and encouraging voters to take advantage of early voting ahead of the June 24 Primary Election Day.”
Hornell, Corning, Elmira area forecast for heat wave
Temperatures in the Southern Tier are forecast to be nearly 20 degrees higher than June’s average daily high of about 75, according to the Weather Service.
Here’s the National Weather Service forecast for the next several days.
Saturday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 86 in Hornell, 87 in Corning and 88 in Elmira. There is a chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m., then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m.
Sunday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 93 in Hornell, and 95 in Corning and Elmira.
Monday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 95 in Hornell, 97 in Corning and 98 in Elmira.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 94 in Hornell. Highs are forecasted to reach 96 in Corning and Elmira.
The heat is not expected to let up much in the middle portion of the week, with highs remaining in the high 80s and low 90s throughout the area on Wednesday and Thursday with a chance of thunderstorms.
Staying cool, safe during early summer heat
Excessive heat poses a significant risk to people’s health, including heat stroke and heat exhaustion, which can result in death. The Weather Service suggested some heat safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe.
Slow down: Reduce, eliminate or reschedule strenuous activities until the coolest time of the day. Children, seniors and anyone with health concerns should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors.
Dress for summer: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing to reflect heat.
Don’t leave kids or pets in the car: The temperature quickly becomes deadly.
Drink plenty of water (not very cold): Focus on non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids. Drink water even if you don’t feel thirsty. If you’re on a fluid-restrictive diet or have a problem with fluid retention, consult a physician before increasing consumption of fluids.
Eat light: Choose easy-to-digest foods such as fruit or salads. If you pack food, put it in a cooler or carry an ice pack. Meats and dairy products can spoil quickly in hot weather.
Use air conditioners: Spend time in air-conditioned locations such as malls and libraries if your home isn’t air conditioned.
Stay informed during heat wave
The New York State Department of Health’s interactive Heat Risk and Illness Dashboard allows the public and county health care officials to determine the forecasted level of heat-related health risks in their area and raise awareness about the dangers of heat exposure.
Email Neal Simon at nsimon@gannett.com. To get unlimited access to the latest news, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.
This article originally appeared on Elmira Star-Gazette: Extreme heat expected to blanket Southern Tier. How high will temperatures get locally?
Reporting by Neal Simon, Elmira Star-Gazette / Elmira Star-Gazette
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