Gov. Hochul advises New Yorkers to be cautious during predicted extreme heat

Gov. Hochul advises New Yorkers to be cautious during predicted extreme heat

Dangerous heat is expected in the Capital Region and much of New York state. The NewsChannel 13 First Warning Weather Team is predicting high temperatures in the 90s from Sunday through Tuesday, with high humidity making it feel much warmer.

Dangerous heat is expected in the Capital Region and much of New York state.

The NewsChannel 13 First Warning Weather Team is predicting high temperatures in the 90s from Sunday through Tuesday, with high humidity making it feel much warmer.

“We like to think we’re really tough, but this is not your run of the mill hot summer week,” said Gov. Kathy Hochul at a briefing on Friday morning.

Hochul stressed the heat is dangerous for everyone, but is especially concerned about vulnerable populations, including seniors, pregnant women, people with preexisting health conditions, and young children.

The state has issued guidance to hospitals and nursing homes to keep everyone cool.

Cooling centers will also be available across the state.

“We’re in regular contact with County Emergency Managers to ensure these cooling centers are open in every community,” Hochul said.

Some people with underlying health conditions, such as persistent asthma, may qualify for free air conditioners under a new program launched by the state.

In anticipation of so many people using air conditioners, Gov. Hochul wants to make sure power companies are ready for the demand. This will minimize the risk of brownouts or power outages.

“More than 5,500 utility workers are on standby across the state, ready to restore power should outages occur,” said Hochul.

RELATED: How to stay cool in the heat wave hitting parts of the US — even without air conditioning

People who work outside, such as Thruway and DOT workers will also be on modified schedules, to protect them from the heat, Hochul said.

“I truly encourage private employers to make the same precautions and similar plans,” said Hochul. “Our Department of Environmental Conservation and Health Department, they’re going to be monitoring the air quality and we’ll issue air quality health alerts as necessary.”

It’s also incredibly important to not leave kids or pets in a hot car.

“It could be deadly,” Hochul said.

Hochul also stressed the importance of drinking lots of water and staying hydrated. However, cut back on the alcohol and caffeine, she suggested.

“I know that’s hard for a lot of New Yorkers, both of those or either of those, but listen, this is going to have an effect on your body and your overall health,” she said.

Hochul assured this extreme heat won’t last incredibly long, but we must be cautious while it’s here.

“This is not the time to start training for the marathon,” she said. “You’ll get back on your normal schedules. Life will return, but this is a critically important week to be smart for you and your families.

MORE: Cooling centers in New York state

Here are some tips from New York state for pet care in extreme heat:

  • Provide ample water indoors and outdoors.
  • Limit outdoor activity, and if outdoors, rest in shaded areas regularly.
  • Be mindful of pavement temperatures — hot surfaces may cause burns on paws, so consider walking on grass or using pet boots.
  • Never leave pets in vehicles unattended when heat is a risk.
  • Know the signs of heatstroke in pets including excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting and stumbling.