Air Quality Alert, Heat Index Could Reach 104 Degrees: NWS

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — The heatwave will continue through the weekend and forecasters say the situation will be hazardous throughout the Hudson Valley.

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory in effect until 8 p.m. Sunday for Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Orange, Dutchess and Ulster counties. The heat index values will be in the mid 90s on Saturday and in the upper 90s to as high as 104 on Sunday. The hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occcur.

The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation has issued Air Quality Alerts that are in effect from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday for Westchester and Rockland counties.

To find a cooling center near you, visit the state Department of Health website.

The NWS is urging those in the affected areas to be sure to drink plenty of fluids and stay out of the sun. Seniors and those who have chronic health issues or mental health conditions are at increased risk. Homes without air conditioning can become hotter than outside temperatures. Use air conditioning to stay cool at home or go to a place with air conditioning. Check on vulnerable friends, family members and neighbors. Children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

SEE: Electric Company's 'Cool Tips' For A Sweltering Summer Saturday

To reduce the risk of working outside, OSHA recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone suffering from heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency and 911 should be called.

Air quality levels in outdoor air are predicted to be greater than an Air Quality Index value of 100 for the pollutant of Ground Level Ozone. When pollution levels are elevated, the NYS Department of Health recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activities to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. Those who are especially sensitive to elevated pollutants include the very young and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or heart disease. Those with symptoms should contact their doctor.

Going into next week, heat indices will likely be in the mid to upper 90s on Monday. There will be a threat for isolated to scattered instances of severe thunderstorms and flash flooding on Monday afternoon into evening for Westchester, Rockland, Putnam and Orange Counties. There will be a marginal to slight risk for severe thunderstorms on Sunday and Monday in Dutchess and Ulster counties, mainly during the afternoon and evening hours.

Check your local forecast at AccuWeather.com.