State and local officials are urging residents to take precautions ahead of a dangerous heat wave expected to grip New York for several days this week, bringing heat index values that could feel as high as 110 degrees.
According to the National Weather Service, dangerously hot and humid conditions are expected to begin Wednesday and continue through at least Saturday. Temperatures are forecast to reach the upper 90s to around 105 degrees, while humidity could make it feel closer to 110 degrees.
Gov. Kathy Hochul warned New Yorkers that the prolonged period of extreme heat could pose serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations.
“This week will bring dangerous heat all across the state, and my administration is taking action to ensure New Yorkers can safely enjoy our historic summer of activities,” Hochul said in a news release. “I also encourage everyone to check in on those most vulnerable and our elderly neighbors — one phone call or visit could save a life.”
Extreme Heat Watches have been issued for much of the state, including the Mid-Hudson Valley, New York City, Long Island, the Capital Region, Mohawk Valley and the Southern Tier.
Westchester officials tell residents to stay safe
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins echoed the state’s warning during this week’s edition of This Week in Westchester, encouraging residents to prepare now for several days of dangerous heat.
He encouraged residents to partake in indoor activities such as going to the movies to remain cool while getting out of the house.
Westchester Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler also urged residents to take precautions against the extreme heat.
“Please take this heat seriously and never leave people or pets in a closed car, even for a minute, because conditions can quickly become life-threatening,” Amler said.
She advised residents to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, take frequent breaks if working outdoors and spend time in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible.
Amler added that people with asthma, infants, pregnant women, older adults and those with heart or respiratory conditions to limit their time outdoors until temperatures cool and air quality improves. She added that people who are especially sensitive to heat should shorten outdoor activities, take frequent breaks and follow their health care provider’s advice.
“Heat stroke and dehydration can surprise you. The elderly, young children and those with high blood pressure, heart disease, or lung conditions should be especially careful to avoid heat-related illnesses,” she said. “High humidity and some medications can also increase a person’s risk for heat stroke.”
Dr. Amler warned that those celebrating this July 4 outdoors to properly refrigerate foods that contain mayonnaise or eggs, to avoid any risk of food poisoning.
How to protect yourself during extreme heat
Officials also reminded residents to check on elderly neighbors, young children and anyone with medical conditions who may be especially vulnerable to heat-related illness.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can develop quickly during prolonged periods of high temperatures. Symptoms of heat stroke include hot, dry skin, confusion, rapid but weak pulse and shallow breathing.
Anyone showing signs of heat stroke should receive immediate medical attention by calling 911 while steps are taken to cool the person down.
If spending time outdoors is unavoidable, officials recommend drinking water regularly before becoming thirsty, wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, taking breaks in the shade and avoiding strenuous activity during the afternoon, when temperatures are typically at their highest.
Residents without air conditioning are encouraged to visit a cooling center or another air-conditioned public building, such as a library or shopping mall, if their homes become too warm.
While forecasters expect temperatures to begin easing later in the week, officials continue to urge residents to monitor weather forecasts and remain cautious until the heat wave passes.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: New York residents urged to prepare for intense heat wave
Reporting by Michelle Grisales, Rockland/Westchester Journal News / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Michelle Grisales, Rockland/Westchester Journal News | USA TODAY Network
