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Summer isn’t easing in gently — it’s kicking down the door.
Temperatures will come within a few degrees of 100 early next week, and when you factor in the humidity, it could feel more like 105 to 110, state officials said.
Maybe it’s Mother Nature’s way of reminding us that summer started Friday.
So, yes, we are officially entering heat wave territory, with three straight days of 90 degrees or more in the city.
The temps in Manhattan from Sunday through Tuesday are predicted to reach highs of 93, 94 and 95, according to the National Weather Service.
In Bay Shore, we’ll be looking at 88, 92 and 94.
Parts of Long Island, including Nassau and western Suffolk counties, are now under an excessive heat watch from Sunday afternoon through Tuesday evening.
That warning means real danger.
The combination of brutal heat and heavy humidity could lead to heat illnesses like heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps and rashes — especially for those working or exercising outdoors.
The worst of it is expected Monday and Tuesday afternoon.
“This is not your run-of-the-mill hot, summer week,” said New York Governor Kathy Hochul during a press briefing Friday.
With elections happening across the state Tuesday, Hochul urged voters to cast their ballots early to avoid waiting in long lines under a scorching sun.
“This is a significant health event,” added Dr. James McDonald, commissioner of the state’s Department of Health.
McDonald said extreme heat kills — but it doesn’t have to. Symptoms can sneak up: lightheadedness, nausea, weakness and confusion that can escalate to convulsions and loss of consciousness. To stay safe, he advised starting your day with water and drinking up to 32 ounces per hour if you’re outside.
Stay in the shade, wear a hat, apply sunscreen and avoid alcohol and caffeine. If you don’t have access to air conditioning, head to your nearest cooling center, or community pool or splash park.
Pets need protection too, said Executive Deputy Commissioner Terry O’Leary of the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, at the same press briefing. Make sure pets have plenty of water and shade, check the pavement temperature before walks, and watch for signs of heat stroke like excessive panting or stumbling.
Hochul said that more than 5,500 utility workers are standing by to respond to power outages. Extra crews are also on alert at the Long Island Rail Road, checking tracks and substations as the heat wave rolls in.
For updates, forecasts, and the latest advisories, visit the National Weather Service website.
Top: The Town of Islip Shipwreck Cove Spray Park in Bay Shore. (Credit: Mike White/GLI file photo)
