NYC faces heat advisory amid scorching temperatures

It has been a hot and eventful summer for New Yorkers. Just two weeks ago there was a massive blackout leaving 72,000 customers in Manhattan without power (and several others after that), then there was a heat wave with temperatures soaring above 100 degrees. Now, the National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. as the heat index reaches the mid 90s.

“The heat that New Yorkers are experiencing this summer is not just uncomfortable, it can also be dangerous,” city health commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot said in a statement. “If possible, stay near air conditioning, wear light cool clothing, drink lots of water and try to avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.”

“Also, check in on friends, family members and neighbors who are sick, elderly, or disabled and may need assistance in a heat emergency,” Barbot added.

In a statement, the city also advised New Yorkers to save energy as to avoid more outages. City officials recommend setting air conditioners to 78°F or “low,” running appliances such as washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers when it’s cooler outside to reduce heat in your home; and turning off air conditioners when not at home.

Cooling centers will be open today across the five boroughs, the Mayor’s Office says. To find one, call 311 or visit the city’s online Cooling Center Finder. Other ways to avoid the heat include visiting these air conditioned public sites, visiting one of the city’s public pools, or taking a trip to one of the city's beaches.