Heat, air warnings issued in the area
A heat advisory was issued for Eastern New York, as well as an air quality warning for Ulster and Dutchess.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Eastern New York, as well as Berkshire County in Massachusetts, Litchfield County in Connecticut, and southern Vermont, effective from noon to 9 p.m. today.
Heat index values in the upper 90s are expected this afternoon due to temperatures around 90, and dew-points around 70.
Additionally, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has issued an air quality alert for today for Dutchess and Ulster counties from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Air quality levels in outdoor air are predicted high for ozone. When pollution levels are elevated, the New York State Department of Health recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects.
The combination of the heat and humidity will increase the risk for heat-related health issues, especially for the elderly, those with chronic health problems such as lung and heart disease, those working outdoors, and other heat-sensitive groups of people.
Heat advisories are issued when the combination of heat and humidity is expected to make it feel like it is 100 to 104 degrees for at least two consecutive hours. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible. Persons exposed to the heat are advised to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned rooms when possible and stay out of the sun.
Residents are also urged to check up on the well-being of relatives and neighbors.
A similar heat advisory was in place on Monday.
Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and 911 should be called, according to the National Weather Service.