Heat, Bad Air Advisories Expand In The Hudson Valley

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — The Heat Advisory has been extended through 6 p.m. Wednesday and expanded into Dutchess and Ulster counties as well as Orange, Putnam, Rockland and Westchester. The Air Quality Advisory has been expanded as well.

Scattered thunderstorms are possible Tuesday and more are likely Wednesday.

• HEAT INDEX VALUES...95 to 101.
• TIMING...In the afternoon and into the early evening through Wednesday.
• IMPACTS...Extreme heat can cause illness and death among at-risk population who cannot stay cool. The heat and humidity may cause heat stress during outdoor exertion or extended exposure.

The air quality has deteriorated in the Hudson Valley. It is now unhealthy for sensitive groups up through Ulster County. (For more weather news, sign up for Patch’s daily newsletter, news alerts and updates.)

The National Weather Service says the combination of heat and humidity is expected to make it feel like it is 95 to 101 degrees. Lows Tuesday night will be warm with temperatures in the 70s. An increase in cloud cover on Wednesday may bring high temp down a few degrees, but heat indices in the metro region will stay 95 to 100 degrees.

Seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions are at an increased risk. Homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoor temperatures. Use air conditioning to stay cool at home, or go to a place that has air conditioning. Check on vulnerable friends, family members and neighbors.

To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency — call 9 1 1.

Scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible this afternoon and evening, mainly north and west of New York City. A better chance for showers and thunderstorms exists Wednesday and Wednesday night, the NWS said.

Map via New York Department of Environmental Conservation

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