New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced on the 22nd that all 32 counties in the state, including New York City, have entered a state of emergency. This declaration comes as the greater New York area is experiencing extreme high temperatures that could potentially break temperature records of over 125 years.
According to meteorological forecasts, the coming days will see high temperatures blanketing the entire East Coast, with New York City expecting temperatures near 100 degrees Fahrenheit (about 38 degrees Celsius) on Monday, and a high of 102 degrees Fahrenheit (about 39 degrees Celsius) on Tuesday. These levels far exceed the historical record of 96 degrees Fahrenheit (35.6 degrees Celsius) set in Central Park in 1888. Coupled with humidity, the heat index could exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, prompting reminders for the public to take precautions against heatstroke.
In addition to the high temperatures, severe thunderstorms over the weekend have caused serious damage in central New York, leading to fallen trees, damaged houses, and reports of at least three fatalities in Oneida County, including young twin girls. Around 50,000 households have been left without power due to the storms, with Oneida County bearing the brunt of the impact, affecting approximately 35,000 households.
Governor Hochul declared a state of emergency for the five boroughs of New York City, Long Island, and 32 counties including Albany, Orange, and Westchester. This measure will mobilize additional resources to assist the affected areas in their response and recovery efforts.
“We mourn deeply for the families who have lost loved ones due to the storm. The state government is in constant communication with local officials and providing necessary support,” Hochul stated in a declaration. “Emergency response personnel have been deployed across the region for rescue and resource coordination to swiftly assist communities in restoring power and order.”
The state government warns that in the coming days, central and southern regions of New York will continue to experience rainfall, with the possibility of flash flooding in localized areas extending to the southern and central Hudson areas. Citizens are advised to stay vigilant of the weather and government alerts, take necessary precautions to ensure personal and family safety.
New Yorkers can text 333111 to receive weather and emergency alert messages, staying informed of the latest developments.