NYC Declares State of Emergency, Opens 500 Cooling Centers as Heat Wave Exceeds 100 Degrees

New York City is experiencing an extreme heat wave with temperatures expected to reach and exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit over several consecutive days. In response, city officials have declared a state of emergency and opened approximately 500 cooling centers across all five boroughs starting Sunday and continuing through Wednesday. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities, use air conditioning when possible, and check on vulnerable populations such as older adults and people with health conditions. The city emphasizes that heat is the deadliest weather condition in NYC, having caused over 500 deaths last year, many occurring indoors without air conditioning.

Cooling centers include public libraries, community centers, and older adult centers, with extended hours in some locations. Similar heat warnings and advisories are also in effect in other regions, including Washington, D.C. and Massachusetts, where officials encourage residents to use cooling centers and take precautions against heat-related illnesses. The National Weather Service and local health departments have issued safety tips and resources to help residents manage the risks associated with the extreme temperatures.