This week New York City is expected to experience scorching hot weather, with temperatures possibly rising to 38 degrees Celsius (approximately 100 degrees Fahrenheit), as the National Weather Service (NWS) advises the public to prepare for the heatwave.
According to the NWS, a hot and humid air mass will engulf the New York area in the coming days, leading to increased temperatures and muggy conditions, with the heat index surpassing the actual temperature.
Thursday (June 19) morning will be dry, but showers or thunderstorms are expected in the afternoon, with temperatures predicted to reach around 32 degrees Celsius (approximately 90 degrees Fahrenheit).
Temperatures are expected to slightly drop on Friday (20th) and Saturday (21st) morning, with drier weather conditions. However, the heat will build up again starting Saturday afternoon. On Sunday (22nd), temperatures are forecasted to climb back above 32 degrees Celsius, with some areas even reaching 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit), and persisting until next Monday.
When high temperatures combine with humidity, the heat index will be higher than the actual temperature. Meteorologists advise the public to avoid going outdoors between noon and 6 p.m. and to wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
According to meteorological definitions, a prolonged period of temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit for three consecutive days constitutes a heatwave. New York City’s heat emergency plan will be activated when the heat index reaches 100 degrees or temperatures stay above 95 degrees for two consecutive days.
A spokesperson for the city’s Emergency Management Agency stated that the heat emergency protocol has not been activated yet but specific measures are expected to be announced in the coming days. They encourage residents without air conditioning to visit various “Cooling Centers” throughout the city, including libraries, senior centers, and community centers, as these locations will remain open to the public according to their regular hours.