New York Governor Kathy Hochul has called on residents to prepare for several days of extreme heat across much of the state, with temperatures expected to feel like they exceed 100 degrees in some areas. The high temperatures will affect the Capital, Mid-Hudson, New York City, and Long Island regions starting Monday and are forecasted to continue through Wednesday. On Tuesday, heat advisories will likely extend to additional regions including the Southern Tier, Mohawk Valley, Central New York, Finger Lakes, and Western New York.
Governor Hochul stated: “Extreme heat is dangerous and can be fatal if it is not taken seriously. I urge residents to plan ahead to make sure they stay hydrated, to check in with elderly neighbors and locate nearby cooling centers during the next few days.”
State agencies have outlined a range of actions in response to the anticipated heat wave. The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is working with county emergency managers to ensure that cooling centers are available and providing guidance about extreme heat risks. Residents can receive real-time weather alerts by texting their county or borough name to 333111.
The Department of Public Service (DPS) is monitoring electric system conditions and coordinating with utilities statewide. Utilities have about 5,500 workers ready for assessment and repairs if needed due to increased electricity demand from air conditioners and other devices during periods of high usage. According to DPS staff reviews and meetings with utilities as well as the New York Independent System Operator, the state’s electric transmission and distribution systems are prepared for summer demands.
The State Health Department is coordinating with emergency management officials at both state and local levels. It offers an interactive Heat Risk and Illness Dashboard for public use that helps track local health risks related to heat exposure.
To provide relief from the high temperatures, Governor Hochul directed the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to extend hours at swimming facilities across multiple state parks through Wednesday evening. Information about park operations can be found on https://parks.ny.gov/parks/, where visitors are encouraged to confirm hours before traveling due to possible changes caused by weather or staffing.
DEC officials advise outdoor enthusiasts—especially hikers—to be aware that hot weather increases risks such as dehydration or even hypothermia if sudden storms occur after heavy sweating without proper clothing. Hikers should bring enough water (at least two liters), salty snacks for electrolytes, sunscreen, wear appropriate clothing, avoid bringing pets on hot days, consider rescheduling trips during excessive heat warnings, and check trail conditions online before heading out.
Air quality across New York will also be monitored by DEC throughout this period; advisories will be issued as necessary. Residents can check www.airnow.gov or visit DEC’s website for up-to-date forecasts.
The Department of Agriculture & Markets has released information on protecting farm workers and animals from extreme heat while working closely with Cornell University’s Extension Disaster Education Network (NY EDEN) for additional support resources at https://eden.cce.cornell.edu/natural-hazards/heat-wave/.
Guidance from the Department of Labor advises employers about best practices such as providing free access to drinking water near worksites at all times; offering shade when the heat index reaches 80°F or above; increasing rest breaks once it exceeds 90°F; ensuring proper personal protective equipment; allowing lightweight clothing where safe; among other measures.
Other agencies—including Thruway Authority maintenance crews (who will adjust work schedules), DOT maintenance teams (who will focus work in cooler morning hours), Office of Children & Family Services (which checks cooling equipment in care programs), Office of Mental Health (which reminds caregivers about extra risks faced by those on certain medications), Office of Temporary & Disability Assistance (which encourages shelters to provide fans/cooling rooms), MTA transit agencies (which implement inspections/patrols), LIRR/Metro-North Railroad crews (who monitor rail temperature issues)—are all taking steps designed either for public safety or infrastructure resilience during this stretch of high temperatures.
For updates on weather advisories statewide visit National Weather Service website.
