New York State officials are urging residents to prepare for a prolonged period of dangerous heat and volatile weather, with feels-like temperatures expected to top 100 degrees and multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms forecast through next week.
Dangerous weather begins Saturday and intensifies by Sunday
The heatwave kicks off Saturday with feels-like temperatures in the high 90s across New York City, the Mid-Hudson Valley, and the Capital Region. Severe thunderstorms could bring damaging winds, large hail, and heavy rainfall, especially in areas north and west of Albany.
The storm threat continues Friday and Saturday across much of the state, followed by a surge in heat and humidity. Starting Sunday, feels-like temperatures could exceed 105 degrees and persist into midweek.
Key heatwave timeline:
- Friday-Saturday: Scattered severe thunderstorms, North Country most affected
- Sunday-Tuesday: Heat index above 100°F statewide; poor overnight cooling
Agencies activate statewide emergency response
Governor Hochul has directed multiple state agencies to implement extreme heat protocols and storm readiness measures:
- Emergency Services: Coordinating with counties to open cooling centers and prepare for potential outages.
- Health Department: Issuing advisories for hospitals, outdoor event hosts, and the general public.
- DPS & Utilities: Monitoring electrical grid conditions, deploying 5,500 workers for repairs if needed.
- Transportation: Shifting road and rail maintenance schedules to cooler hours; inspecting rail systems for heat-related issues.
- Environmental Conservation: Warning hikers to avoid high-elevation trails; advising on air quality and heat safety.
- Labor & Agriculture: Releasing safety protocols for outdoor workers and farm operations.
- MTA & Railroads: Conducting heat patrols, AC inspections, and staging extra staff for emergency response.
Health risks and precautions
Health officials emphasize the increased risk of heat-related illness, especially for seniors, children, those with chronic conditions, and individuals on certain medications.
Safety tips:
- Stay indoors during peak heat hours.
- Drink water regularly—even if not thirsty.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
- Use air conditioning or visit a cooling center.
- Check on vulnerable neighbors or family members.
Interactive tools like the Heat Risk and Illness Dashboard and the DEC Urban Heat Island maps can help residents understand localized heat exposure and find relief options.
Election Day impact and early voting
Tuesday, June 24 is Primary Election Day in New York, and high temperatures are expected statewide. Voters are encouraged to take advantage of early voting or request a mail ballot in person at their local county board of elections.
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