[title]
New York City is officially entering its main character in a heatwave era, as a three-day stretch of dangerous temps kicks off today, bringing real-feel temperatures as high as 104 degrees. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory from 11 am today through 8 pm Wednesday—so if you were planning an afternoon jog or a midday dog walk, maybe… don’t.
Forecasts call for highs in the low to mid-90s, but thanks to humidity levels that rival a Bikram studio, it’ll feel much hotter, especially on Tuesday and Wednesday. Factor in lingering smoke from Canadian wildfires, and you’ve got a one-two punch of gross air and oppressive heat that could put vulnerable New Yorkers at real risk.
“This is going to be a several-day event,” warned NWS meteorologist Matthew Wunsch. “Take it easy, make sure you stay hydrated and things of that nature.” Solid advice, unless your A/C’s out—at which point, the city has opened public cooling centers, including libraries, senior centers and community spaces across all five boroughs. For a full list, call 311 or check the NYC Cool Options Map.
City officials have also activated a heat emergency plan, which includes outreach to the homeless, energy conservation alerts and hydration reminders for, well, everyone. Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol put it bluntly: “Prolonged heat like this is dangerous, especially for older adults, people with health conditions, and those without air conditioning.”
For the record, more than 500 New Yorkers die prematurely each year from heat-related illness, making extreme heat one of the city’s deadliest weather threats, even more so than snow or hurricanes.
If you absolutely must be outside, experts advise sticking to the shade, wearing light clothing and avoiding alcohol or caffeine (sorry, iced coffee). And don’t forget to check on elderly neighbors or anyone who might not have access to A/C.
Relief is expected late Wednesday as a cold front moves in, possibly bringing showers and a return to more reasonable temperatures in the low 80s by Thursday. Until then, NYC, stay cool—and if you're dripping in sweat by 9 am, just know: You're not alone.