The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning for the Highlands for noon on Sunday (June 22) through 8 p.m. on Tuesday. Temperatures between 90 to over 100 degrees may continue through Wednesday.
Heat index values (“feels like temperatures”) are expected to reach as high as 110 degrees, it said, increasing the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for those who are outdoors.
The highest heat index values will take place each day during the afternoon, especially on Monday and Tuesday, it said.
On Sunday, Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in 32 counties, including Dutchess and Putnam, in response to severe weather. Severe thunderstorms hit other parts of the state and flash flooding may extend into the Mid-Hudson region.
On Monday, Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne issued an executive order to suspend park admission fees at Veterans Memorial Park, allowing residents to access the swimming areas free. Many lakes throughout the county remain closed to swimming because of harmful algal blooms (HABs). For updates on beach closures, residents are encouraged to visit the beach status page. In addition, the Philipstown senior center will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. as a cooling center for all residents.
A heat-index map for Sunday
In Beacon, the Howland Public Library serves as a cooling center. It is open noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Monday and 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday.
In Philipstown, the Desmond-Fish Public Library in Garrison (open 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday) and the Butterfield Library in Cold Spring (open noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday) are cooling centers.
An extreme heat warning means that the combination of heat and humidity is expected to make it feel like it is 105 degrees or greater. The National Weather Service advises taking precautions such as rescheduling strenuous activities to early morning or evening to avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible, and drink plenty of water.
Seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions are at an increased risk. Homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoor temperatures. Use air conditioning to stay cool at home or go to a place that has air conditioning. Check on vulnerable friends, family members and neighbors.
To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency. In cases of heat stroke call 911.
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It’s also good to remind people to remember their pets; help them stay cool by providing shade and plenty of drinking water, ideally indoors, and never leave them in a hot car when running errands.
It’s also good to remind people to remember their pets; help them stay cool by providing shade and plenty of drinking water, ideally indoors, and never leave them in a hot car when running errands.