By: Don Driggers

Mayor Eric Adams announced on Monday that New York City is ready to face its first heat wave of the year. He cautioned residents to brace for several days of intense heat, with the heat index potentially climbing to nearly 100 degrees, NY Post reported.

“Heat waves are not just uncomfortable; they can be deadly if you’re unprepared,” Adams stated at a morning press conference. “New York City has a comprehensive plan to manage the heat, and we urge all New Yorkers to have their own strategies to stay safe.”

Adams advised residents to take it easy when working outdoors, to wear hats, find shade, and do everything possible to keep their body temperatures down. He also recommended locating local cooling centers, either online or by calling 311, and checking on neighbors during the hottest periods, which are expected to peak at around 95 degrees on Thursday and Friday.

“There are significant safety concerns to be aware of,” Adams emphasized. “It’s vital to plan ahead and ensure everyone’s safety, including pets.”

The sweltering conditions are caused by a “heat dome,” a high-pressure system that traps warm air and prevents it from dissipating into the atmosphere. This phenomenon will make it feel even hotter, with heat index values expected to reach around 100 degrees in northern New Jersey, southern Connecticut, and New York City, according to Monday’s forecasts.

Additionally, the lack of wind will trap air pollution, likely leading to air quality alerts later in the week, explained Marissa Lautenbacher, a meteorologist with FOX Weather. “It’s going to be mostly still air with minimal breezes,” Lautenbacher noted. “This high-pressure system is staying put, trapping pollutants near the surface.”

Individuals with respiratory issues, such as asthma, should be especially cautious during this period. “It’s been a long time since we’ve had a June heat wave,” Lautenbacher said, pointing out that there will be few clouds to provide relief from the sun.

Dr. Ashwin Vasan, the city’s health commissioner, urged residents to use air conditioning, setting it to at least 78 degrees, as fans alone are not sufficient. “A cool bath or shower can help, but it’s not a substitute for air-conditioning,” Vasan advised. “Stay hydrated and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water.”

Governor Kathy Hochul echoed these warnings on Monday, announcing that she had activated approximately 50 National Guard members to assist as needed. “Stay informed with your local forecast, keep hydrated, and limit outdoor activities,” she advised in a statement. She also mentioned that the state’s Department of Public Service is monitoring the electrical grid for any potential issues and is in communication with utility leaders to ensure preparedness.

Zach Iscol, the city’s emergency management commissioner, highlighted the severe risks associated with the extreme heat. “These temperatures are dangerously high,” Iscol said during the press conference. “Prolonged exposure to heat can severely strain the body’s ability to regulate temperature.”

“Extreme heat is the most hazardous weather condition we face in New York City,” he added, noting that about 350 New Yorkers die each year due to the summer’s extreme heat. “Therefore, the administration’s top priority is to safeguard public safety and ensure our city remains livable for everyone.”