Governor Hochul Urges Caution as Excessive Heat Warning Now in Effect With Unhealthy Temperature Levels Expected in Many Regions of New York State

Aug 22, 2023

Heat Index Value, or “Feels Like” Temperature, Forecast to be in the 100s for Lower Elevation Areas Through Friday

Excessive Heat Warning Issued for New York City Thursday Morning Through Friday Evening

Long Island and Parts of Many Upstate Regions Under Heat Advisory

State Parks Offering Extended Hours at Swimming Facilities Across the State

Governor Hochul Reminds New Yorkers to Prepare for Extreme Weather Conditions and Know Your Nearest Cooling Center

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Governor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to take caution as extreme heat conditions remain in the forecast for much of the state Thursday and Friday, with heat index values — or “feels like” temperatures — expected between the mid-90’s and into the 100’s. The National Weather Service issued an Excessive Heat Warning for New York City beginning late Thursday morning that lasts through Friday evening, as heat indices are currently forecast to reach 105 degrees or more during that time period. The Long Island and Mid-Hudson regions will also see heat indices in the triple digits beginning Thursday and, on Friday, many upstate regions will see indices near 100 degrees. Governor Hochul encouraged New Yorkers to prepare for two straight days of high temps and humidity throughout the state.

"New Yorkers should take every precaution they can over these next few days to stay cool and stay safe as the combination of extreme heat and humidity will pose a significant health risk for vulnerable New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. "My administration will be closely monitoring the weather impacts and we encourage New Yorkers to stay hydrated, have a plan if you need to cool off and look after our vulnerable neighbors and loved ones during this time."

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, "Apparent temperatures in the triple digits are dangerous for vulnerable populations and those outside for extended periods of time. Take every precaution you can to stay safe these next few days and reconsider outdoor activities if you are sensitive to heat and humidity.

New Yorkers are encouraged to monitor their local weather forecast 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.

New Yorkers can visit the Department of Health’s website for an updated list of Cooling Centers, which are submitted by local health departments and local emergency management offices.

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 illnesses 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:

Agency Preparations

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency ServicesThe New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services' Emergency Operations Center is monitoring the weather forecast with a close eye on the heat index this week. DHSES is communicating with local emergency managers across the state and will coordinate any potential State agency response to aid local governments. The State's stockpiles are equipped to deploy resources, as needed, throughout impacted parts of the state.

Department of Public ServiceThe New York State Department of Public Service (DPS) is tracking electric system conditions and overseeing utility response to any situations that may arise as a result of this week's extreme heat, in addition to today’s band of thunderstorm activity. New York's utilities have approximately 5,710 workers available as necessary to engage in damage assessment, response, repair, and restoration efforts across New York State for any weather-related impacts this week. This includes the 210 external contract line workers secured by National Grid to augment their Central and Eastern Division workforce for today’s thunderstorm event. Agency staff will track utilities' work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact.

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic PreservationNew York State Parks has facilities across the state where the public can go to cool off with swimming at pools and waterbodies or cooling off at spray grounds. A list of available State Parks swimming facilities is available here.

Heat Safety TipsTo help New Yorkers stay safe during excessive heat, follow the below guidance and visit the DHSES Heat Safety Tips webpage.

Be PreparedTaking 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. To help New Yorkers stay safe during excessive heat, follow the below guidance and visit the DHSES Heat Safety Tips webpage.

Conserve ElectricityNYSERDA recommends 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:

Water Safety

Open Water Safety

Pool Safety Tips

A list of available State Parks swimming facilities is available here.