A heat advisory is in place for most of the tri-state area this week and Fox 5 meteorologist Audrey Puente says it’s about to get worse.
A heat wave is expected to begin Monday and last until at least Friday.
Temperatures are forecasted to reach the mid-90s but with a heat index of 100 degrees or greater. Heat advisories and excessive heat warnings have been issued in multiple counties within the tri-state area.
The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) has cooling centers throughout all five boroughs.
The OEM has strongly urged those being hit by this week’s massive heat wave to stay indoors, drink plenty of fluids and to cool down with cold baths or showers.
The OEM also encourages beachgoers to avoid strenuous activity during the sun’s peak — between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. — and to wear an SPF 15 sunscreen or higher as well as hats to help block the rays.
To prevent the heat from getting the best of you, it’s important to recognize symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Early symptoms of heat illnesses include profuse sweating, fatigue and massive thirst.
Residents are encouraged to regularly check on neighbors — especially seniors or those with special needs. During times of excessive heat, it’s important not to leave children, seniors or pets in enclosed areas like parked cars.
During periods of hot and humid weather, power outages may be likely. In order to prevent power outages, residents should help conserve energy by turning lights off, keeping non-essential appliances off and setting air conditioners or thermostats to temperatures no lower than 78 degrees.
Many senior and community centers serve as cooling centers. New Yorkers can call 311 or log on to www.NYC.gov/oem to find the nearest cooling center. Call your local cooling center to confirm hours of operations.
For information on New Jersey cooling centers, visit: www.state.nj.us/njoem.
In Connecticut, people can call 1-800-830-9426, or 911 in an emergency.
People in Suffolk County can go to www.suffolkcountyny.com and in Nassau County, log on to: www.nassaucountyny.gov.