By Marlyn Montilla
Jun 24, 2024, 09:29 AM EDT
As the heat wave that plagues New York continues, a high temperature warning was extended until Sunday, which still had humidity and temperatures close to 90° F, with the possibility of thunderstorms and precipitation, while temperatures dropped a little at night, according to AccuWeather.com.
In response to the high temperatures and humidity that have blanketed the Big Apple since last week, city authorities continue to warn their citizens about the danger of extreme heat.
Likewise, the New York City Department of Health advised people aged 60 and older, young children and citizens with pre-existing health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, mental health problems or cognitive impairment to take extra precautions.
New Yorkers with the aforementioned conditions should stay out of the sun, avoid sudden changes in temperature and strenuous activities. If you must go out, you should wear 50 SPF sunscreen, drink water every 15 minutes even if you are not thirsty, and avoid alcoholic beverages and caffeine, DOH says.
According to the Department of Health, an average of about 350 people die annually in the city due to prolonged hot weather, SI Live reported.
The vast majority of deaths are caused by exposure to excessive heat that worsens underlying health conditions, according to NYC Health.
The greatest risk factor for deaths is the lack of properly functioning air conditioning in the home.
How to beat the heat
There are different places to stay cool, the Big Apple operates more than 500 cooling centers, and more than two dozen of them are on Staten Island.
The centers are located in air-conditioned public facilities, such as senior centers and libraries, and are aimed at anyone who needs a break from the sweltering temperatures.
Some centers, such as Great Kills Friendship Club, are wheelchair accessible and strictly for those 65 and older.
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