How to Stay Cool in New York City During Extreme Heat

Officials are urging New Yorkers to find safe and reliable ways to stay cool over the next few days while the city is expected to face dangerously high temperatures.

New York City is expected to see temperatures in the low- to mid-nineties on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, according to the National Weather Service, and the heat index is predicted to reach temperatures up to 106 degrees. For the first time in nearly two years, the National Weather Service issued an extreme heat advisory for New York City from 11 a.m. on Thursday to 9 p.m. on Friday.

During a news conference on Thursday morning, Mayor Eric Adams said: “Heat kills more New Yorkers every year than any other kind of extreme weather event. Access to cooling is a matter of life and death.”

Where to Beat the Heat

City officials encouraged New Yorkers to seek out public swimming pools, drinking fountains, splash pads and shady parks.

“Although air-conditioning is a critical tool in this heat battle, it doesn’t need to be operating at maximum capacity,” Mr. Iscol said. He said 78 degrees was an appropriate temperature for “maintaining your comfort while also ensuring energy consumption for the entire city remains sustainable.”

Matthew Ketschke, the president of Con Edison, warned that the increased use of air-conditioners during periods of extreme heat could lead to power outages, which can be deadly, especially for infants, seniors, pregnant people and those with certain risk factors.

New Yorkers should not, however, risk their health, said Dr. Ashwin Vasan, commissioner of the city’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

Dr. Vasan encouraged residents to seek medical attention if they exhibit signs of heat stroke, which can include hot, dry skin; cold, clammy skin; confusion or disorientation; nausea or vomiting; trouble breathing; rapid heartbeat; or weakness and dizziness.