New York Governor Kathy Hochul has taken proactive measures in response to the potential record-setting heat wave expected to hit the Northeast this week. Hochul announced the opening of the state’s emergency operations center to monitor conditions and coordinate resources with emergency management personnel across all 62 counties in the state.
The governor emphasized the importance of protecting lives during this period of significant risk, especially as every region of upstate New York is forecasted to experience temperatures exceeding 100 degrees, including areas near the Canadian border.
Starting Tuesday, the state will issue ozone alerts in New York City, Lower Hudson, and western New York regions from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET due to the combination of high heat and extreme humidity, which could impact air quality.
To provide relief from the scorching temperatures, pools and beaches will open early on Wednesday, coinciding with Juneteenth, to offer families a safe place to cool off and escape the heat.
New York City and Long Island are expected to face the most severe heat conditions on Thursday and Friday, with State Commissioner of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Jackie Bray highlighting the lack of nighttime relief as temperatures are projected to remain in the high 70s, preventing bodies from cooling down effectively and increasing the risks associated with the heat wave.
