An extreme heat watch is in effect for Long Island from Wednesday afternoon through Friday evening, with dangerously hot and humid conditions expected to bring heat index values between 105 and 110, according to the National Weather Service in Upton.
The watch includes northwest Suffolk, northeast Suffolk, southwest Suffolk and southeast Suffolk, as well as Nassau County. The weather service said coastal areas across Long Island will likely see peak heat index values closer to 100 to 105.
Forecasters said a building ridge of high pressure and a modified subtropical air mass will set up a prolonged period of dangerous heat mid- to late week. While there is still some uncertainty in the exact strength and placement of the ridge — and therefore the precise temperature and humidity levels — the National Weather Service said recent forecast consistency supports a “potentially dangerous heat situation” with only a few degrees separating heat advisory- and warning-level conditions.
Rising dew points are expected to limit overnight relief, increasing the risk for heat-related illness, particularly for people working or participating in outdoor activities.
In Riverhead, the National Weather Service forecast calls for highs near 90 on Wednesday, 93 on Thursday and 96 on Friday, with overnight lows in the low to mid-70s.
The weather service said seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions are at increased risk, and noted that homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoor temperatures.
Tips for preventing, recognizing and treating heat-related illness.
For outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool, shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency — call 911.
Residents are urged to use air conditioning to stay cool at home or go to a place that has air conditioning. Those without home air conditioning should continue to seek out cool spaces each day as long as it remains hot, and for a few days after if their home remains hot. Check on vulnerable friends, family members and neighbors.
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