Temperatures in Rye, Harrison and Rye Brook will feel close to 100 degrees through Friday evening, Aug. 7, as a Heat Advisory blankets Westchester County.
The National Weather Service issued the advisory, which runs through 8 p.m. Friday. Actual highs are forecast near 89°F on Thursday, Aug. 6, and 88°F on Friday, but humidity will push the heat index to 102–104 degrees across the Lower Hudson Valley, according to lohud.
Westchester County government posted the advisory Thursday morning, Aug. 6, urging residents to take precautions during the two-day stretch.
Air quality warning compounds the risk
Heat isn't the only concern.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation also issued an Air Quality Health Advisory through 11 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, for the Lower Hudson Valley. The Air Quality Index is predicted to exceed 100, a level considered unhealthy for sensitive groups including people with asthma, respiratory illness or heart disease, according to the county's advisory.
Exposure to elevated fine particulate matter can cause eye and throat irritation, coughing and shortness of breath, and can worsen existing heart and lung conditions.
Who's most at risk
Westchester County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler identified children, teenagers, adults 65 and older, pregnant people, outdoor workers and residents of disadvantaged communities as most vulnerable.
"When it is this hot and humid, drink lots of water, take frequent breaks from outdoor work or exercise and don't overdo it," Dr. Amler said in the county's advisory statement Thursday. "Take time to cool off and spend time in air-conditioned places."
What residents should do
County officials recommend:
- Stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible
- Drink plenty of water; avoid alcohol and sugary beverages
- Limit outdoor activity between noon and 8 p.m.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing
- Never leave children, older adults or pets unattended in vehicles
- Check on elderly neighbors and those without air conditioning
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends outdoor workers take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
Cooling centers
Residents without air conditioning are encouraged to visit a local cooling center. The county directs residents to check with the City of Rye, Town/Village of Harrison or Village of Rye Brook for any temporary cooling centers opened during the advisory period.
What's next
A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms arrives Friday after 4 p.m., with overnight lows both nights around 75–76°F. The advisory expires at 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7. Residents can monitor updates at weather.gov/okx or call 9-1-1 in an emergency.
