Heat wave hits Western New York

An “overwhelming” heat wave is expected to hit New York state for much of the coming week, according to forecasts from the National Weather Service in Buffalo.

A “prolonged period of hot and humid weather” will last Monday through Thursday in Western New York. Tuesday and Wednesday are expected to be the warmest days, but high temperatures for all four days hover around 90 degrees, with heat index values ​​reaching the upper 90s. Nighttime temperatures are not expected to drop below 70.

“We need to be cognizant of the fact that heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths here in the United States,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said during a speech in Syracuse on Friday. “So no matter how healthy you are, no matter how old you are and where you live, there will be dangers from extreme heat. »

The record temperature recorded in Buffalo was 99 degrees in 1948, according to the National Weather Service.

BPS implements early dismissal

Buffalo Public Schools announced Saturday that it would send students in grades K-8 back early Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday due to “excessive heat.” (BPS students already had Wednesday off for June 19.) Students will be dismissed 3.5 hours early and will have lunch before leaving for the day.

BPS high school students will still take their Regents exams as scheduled, although the district will provide water stations.

City to open cooling shelters and extend fountain hours

Buffalo will open cooling shelters and extend hours at its 10 splash pads in an effort to beat the heat, city officials announced Friday afternoon.

Officials said cooling shelter locations and wading pool hours “will be provided later.” The city’s water games are currently open daily from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

“We don’t want residents to take this lightly,” Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said at a news conference. “People could overheat, get sick or worse.”

Five of the city’s seven outdoor pools are expected to open, but not before July 1.

Extreme Heat Safety Tips

According to the Centers for Disease Control, heat-related illnesses can be prevented by:

· Stay hydrated

· Check in on family, friends and neighbors, especially those with chronic illnesses

· Wear loose, light clothing

· Stay in an air-conditioned house or public building

· Do not leave children or animals alone in the car

· Wear sunscreen

· Limit strenuous outdoor activities