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The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for the Hudson Valley, which will remain in effect from 11 a.m. through 8 p.m. on Monday, with heat index values expected to peak around 1:00 p.m. and lasting through the late afternoon.
According to the NWS, the extreme heat can cause illness and death among the at-risk population who cannot stay cool. “Heat and humidity may cause heat stress during outdoor exertion or extended exposure.
“A heat advisory is issued when the combination of heat and humidity is expected to make it feel like it is 95 to 99 degrees for two or more consecutive days, or 100 to 104 degrees for any length of time.”
In response to the extreme heat, Cuomo said that “people who are susceptible to heat-related illnesses including young children, the elderly, those who exercise outdoors, those involved in vigorous outdoor work, and those who have respiratory diseases such as asthma and at-risk populations should take necessary steps to stay cool as temperatures rise.”
"With prolonged heat and humidity in the forecast, I urge New Yorkers to take necessary steps to stay cool," Cuomo said. "As temperatures continue to rise, I encourage everyone to check on your friends and neighbors who may need some extra help and to cool off at state parks pools and cooling centers."
According to the New York State Department of Health, research, funded by NASA, showed that emergency department visits and hospital admissions from heat increase significantly on days when the heat index reaches 95 degrees or higher. The risk of heat stress, dehydration, renal illness, cardiovascular illness and death increases for up to four days after a heatwave, which is defined as three or more consecutive days with temperatures topping 90 degrees.
To help beat the heat, cooling centers have been set up in the region to help area residents stay cool. Cuomo’s office has also issued a series of advice to help avoid any heat-related illnesses:
- Slow down on strenuous activity and exercise, especially during the sun's peak hours of 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.;
- Exercise should be done in the early morning between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m.;
- Eat less protein and more fruits and vegetables. Protein produces and increases metabolic heat, which causes water loss. Eat small meals, but eat more often. Do not eat salty foods;
- Drink at least two to four glasses of water per hour during extreme heat, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine;
- If possible, stay out of the sun and stay in air conditioning. The sun heats the inner core of your body, resulting in dehydration. If air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor, out of the sunshine, or go to a public building with air conditioning;
- If you must go outdoors, wear sunscreen with a high sun protector factor rating (at least SPF 15) and a hat to protect your face and head. When outdoors, wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing. Cover as much skin as possible to avoid sunburn and over-warming effects of sunlight on your body;
- Do not leave children, pets or those who require special care in a parked car or vehicle during periods of intense summer heat. Temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach over 140 degrees Fahrenheit quickly. Exposure to such high temperatures can kill within a matter of minutes;
- Make sure there is enough food and water for pets.
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