New York Governor Kathy Hochul has provided an update on air quality and extreme heat conditions affecting the state. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Department of Health (DOH) have issued Air Quality Health Advisories for July 29 and July 30, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., due to elevated ozone levels in the Long Island and New York City Metro regions. Heat advisories are also in effect for several areas, including the Southern Tier, Mohawk Valley, Capital District, Mid-Hudson, New York City, and Long Island. Feels-like temperatures are expected to reach the 90s statewide and could surpass 100 degrees in some regions on Tuesday and Wednesday.
“As high temperatures and poor air quality impact parts of our state, we’re taking action to ensure New Yorkers are safe,” Governor Hochul said. “Heat is the number one cause of extreme weather fatalities in the State of New York, and I encourage everyone to take the proper precautions to protect themselves, their families and our most vulnerable neighbors.”
Severe thunderstorms with damaging winds may occur Wednesday in several regions ahead of a cold front that is expected to bring cooler air by the weekend. Heavy rainfall between one to three inches could lead to flash flooding mainly in the Mid-Hudson, Long Island, and New York City areas on Thursday.
The DEC advises residents that summer heat can increase ground-level ozone formation. Air Quality Health Advisories are issued when pollution levels are predicted to exceed an Air Quality Index value of 100—considered unhealthy for sensitive groups such as those with cardiovascular or respiratory disease, young children, outdoor workers or exercisers. During high ozone periods (typically afternoon through early evening), these individuals should limit strenuous outdoor activity or remain indoors where exposure is reduced. Those experiencing symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain should consult a physician.
Residents can monitor air quality forecasts at https://www.airnow.gov/ or sign up for alerts via DEC Delivers. Additional information is available at dec.ny.gov and on the DOH website regarding health risks from poor air quality.
High temperatures combined with humidity pose dangers particularly for older adults, young children, outdoor workers, and people with certain preexisting conditions such as obesity or heart disease. Symptoms of heat-related illness include dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, decreased urination and rapid breathing.
Recommendations for staying safe during extreme heat include hydrating frequently; avoiding direct sunlight; seeking shade or air conditioning; limiting strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat hours; checking on older family members or neighbors; and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms arise.
Extreme heat remains the leading cause of weather-related deaths nationwide according to federal data (https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/index.html). Common illnesses include heat stroke, exhaustion, cramps and rash. More guidance can be found on the State Health Department’s extreme heat advice webpage along with locations for nearby cooling centers (https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/weather/cooling/centers.htm).
The state has launched a new Heat Risk and Illness Dashboard providing real-time data for communities and decision-makers—including school officials—to guide planning around outdoor activities or opening cooling centers as part of broader climate adaptation efforts.
Pet owners are reminded to provide ample water both indoors and outdoors; limit pets’ time outside; rest pets in shaded areas; avoid hot pavement surfaces which may burn paws; never leave pets unattended in vehicles during hot weather; watch for signs of pet heatstroke such as excessive panting or lethargy.
To help residents cope with ongoing high temperatures this week, the Office of Parks has extended hours at swimming facilities across various state parks—including Jones Beach State Park on Long Island through Darien Lake State Park in Western New York—with some pools open until as late as 8 p.m., though visitors should confirm current availability online at https://parks.ny.gov/parks/ due to possible changes from weather conditions or staffing.
State agencies continue coordinated efforts:
– The Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Services remains in contact with county managers about cooling center availability.
– The Department of Public Service reports utilities statewide are prepared for increased demand this summer following annual reviews with power providers.
– Approximately 5,500 utility workers stand ready for damage assessment or restoration work if needed.
– The Metropolitan Transportation Authority will implement extra inspections (“heat patrols”), stage personnel/equipment at key sites such as substations—and inspect all subway cars/buses before service—to minimize disruptions.
– Long Island Rail Road & Metro-North crews will monitor rail temperatures closely while deploying staff quickly if issues arise.
For updated weather warnings visit: https://www.weather.gov/
“As high temperatures and poor air quality impact parts of our state, we’re taking action to ensure New Yorkers are safe,” Governor Hochul said. “Heat is the number one cause of extreme weather fatalities in the State of New York, and I encourage everyone to take the proper precautions to protect themselves, their families and our most vulnerable neighbors.”
