New Yorkers are being urged to prepare for dangerous heat, poor air quality and the potential for severe thunderstorms Thursday, June 11, and Friday, June 12.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for New York City, the Lower Hudson Valley and parts of northern New Jersey through Friday evening. An air quality health advisory is also in effect Thursday due to elevated ozone levels.
Forecasters warn that thunderstorms Thursday and Friday could bring damaging wind gusts, heavy rainfall and localized flooding. Some areas of upstate New York could also see hail or an isolated tornado.
Officials urge caution
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged residents to use caution while traveling, particularly in areas prone to flooding, including some roadways, bridges and subway stations.
City officials said cooling centers will be available during the heat wave.
Utility companies, including Con Edison and Orange & Rockland, said crews are prepared to respond to potential power outages caused by extreme heat or severe weather.
Air quality advisory in effect Thursday
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has issued an Air Quality Health Advisory from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday for:
Officials said ground-level ozone is expected to push air quality above an Air Quality Index value of 100, a level considered unhealthy for sensitive groups.
The state Department of Health recommends limiting strenuous outdoor activity when pollution levels are elevated.
Those most vulnerable include:
People with asthma or other respiratory conditions
People with heart disease
Anyone experiencing symptoms should consult a health care provider.
Heat advisory through Friday
A heat advisory remains in effect from noon Thursday through 8 p.m. Friday for New York City, the Lower Hudson Valley and portions of northern New Jersey.
Forecasters expect heat index values — what temperatures feel like when humidity is factored in — to reach as high as 101 degrees.
Counties under the advisory include:
The National Weather Service generally issues a heat advisory when heat index values are expected to reach at least 95 degrees for an extended period.
Forecast for New York City and Lower Hudson ValleyThursday
Partly sunny with a high near 93 degrees. Heat index values could approach 99 degrees. Showers and thunderstorms are possible late in the day and evening, with localized flooding, damaging winds and scattered power outages possible.
Friday
Mostly cloudy and hot with a high near 93 degrees. Heat index values could reach 101 degrees. Additional showers and thunderstorms are possible during the afternoon and evening.
Saturday
Sunny with a high near 90 degrees.
Sunday
Mostly sunny with a high near 89 degrees.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: New York City faces extreme heat and severe storms