Steve Sosna’s forecast for Tuesday, July 21
Another day of oppressive temperatures and stifling humidity is in store Tuesday as New York City heads into what could be its first heat wave in more than two years, Storm Team 4 says.
Temperatures are forecast to top 90 degrees for the third straight day in Central Park, marking the first time the city has seen such sustained hot temperatures since July 2013. The rest of the region should also see sizzling conditions Tuesday, and parts of central and coastal New Jersey are under air quality alerts because of high ozone levels.
If there's any solace in Tuesday's heat, it's that it won't feel quite as unbearable as Sunday or Monday, Storm Team 4 says. The humidity is expected to be slightly lower during the day, and cloud cover will keep temperatures from rising as high as they did the previous two days.
Utilities across the region will likely continue curtailing electricity supplies, a day after more than 20,000 homes and businesses lost power due to the hot weather.
The heat should finally snap Tuesday night as a cold front moves over the region. The region should see some isolated thunderstorms during the afternoon and evening as the front moves through.
Once the storms pass, conditions will be much more bearable. Temperatures overnight will dip into the upper 60s and highs the rest of the week should stay in the mid or lower 80s.
TIPS FOR AVOIDING HEAT-RELATED ILLNESS:
- Stay out of the sun -- avoid extreme temperature changes.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors reflect some of the sun’s energy.
- Drink fluids -- particularly water -- even if you do not feel thirsty. Your body needs water to keep cool. (Those on fluid-restricted diets or taking diuretics should first consult their physician.)
- Water is the safest liquid to drink during heat emergencies. Avoid beverages containing alcohol and/or caffeine.
- Eat small, frequent meals.
- Avoid strenuous activity, especially during the sun’s peak hours -- 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m.
- If possible, go to an air-conditioned building for several hours during the hottest parts of the day.
- New York City may open cooling centers around the five boroughs when temperatures reach dangerous levels. When cooling centers do open, call 311 or go to nyc.gov/oem to find the nearest center.
- Cool down with a cool bath or shower.
- Participate in activities that will keep you cool, such as going to the movies, shopping at a mall, or swimming at a pool or beach.
- Cover all exposed skin with an SPF sunscreen (15 or above); wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and head.
- Never leave your children or pets in the car.
