KINGSTON, N.Y. — An expected heatwave has resulted in an excessive heat warning issued for Kingston and surrounding areas, in effect from Monday, June 23, at 11 a.m. until Tuesday, June 24, at 8 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.The warning cited “dangerously hot conditions with heat index values between 105 and 110 degrees expected.” Heat index measurements indicate the level of discomfort the average person is thought to experience as a result of the combined effects of the temperature and humidity of the air.
Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 96 degrees on Monday, and 99 degrees on Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service.
Two cooling centers are open in Ulster County. The 2nda Inglesia La Mision Church cooling center, located at 80 Elmendorf St. in Kingston, is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Sunday, June 22, to Thursday, June 26.
In Ellenville, the Trudy Farber Building at 50 Center St. will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday, June 23, through Thursday, June 26.
The centers are opened when there are three or more days are predicted with temperatures of 90 degrees or above and “will be reassessed” by county officials to determine when to open and close them, a spokesperson for County Executive Jen Metzger said Friday, June 20.
Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Sunday afternoon that she declared a State of Emergency in 32 counties — including Ulster, Dutchess, Greene, and Columbia counties — in response to the extreme weather conditions. Hochul said the decision came from a combination of heavy rain in Central New York as well as the extreme heat forecast through Wednesday, June 25. Syracuse.com reported that three people died in Oneida County when an overnight storm produced heavy rains and high winds. It added that tens of thousands were left without power.
“Our hearts break for the tragic loss of life during last night’s storms, and my administration has been in touch with local elected officials offering support,” Hochul said in a statement. “State emergency response personnel are already on the ground providing resources and support as we work to recover from this severe weather and restore power quickly. I urge all New Yorkers to stay weather aware and take precautions to stay vigilant and safe as extreme heat and severe weather are expected to continue impacting the State over the next couple of days.”
Area residents can sign up for text weather and emergency alerts by texting their county or borough to 333111.
The heatwave is expected to continue at least through Wednesday, June 25, when a high of 92 degrees is predicted in the Kingston area.
During periods of extreme heat, the Weather Service advises that people “reduce, eliminate or reschedule strenuous activities until the coolest time of the day. Those particularly vulnerable to heat such as children, infants, older adults (especially those who have pre-existing conditions, take certain medications, living alone or with limited mobility), those with chronic medical conditions, and pregnant women should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors.”
During heat waves, wear lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight, the Weather Service advises, adding that people should drink plenty of water and avoid taking salt tablets unless advised to do so by a physician.
For more information, visit weather.gov/safety/heat-during.