Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Wednesday that due to heat advisories announced for Thursday through Saturday, state parks will be extending the hours of swimming facilities throughout New York City, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley.
With Friday “feel like” temperatures possibly climbing to 105 degrees or higher, Governor Hochul said that “extreme heat is posing a significant health risk for New Yorkers, especially for vulnerable populations like children and seniors.”
"Visiting our beautiful State beaches, pools and parks is one of the best ways to cool off during this upcoming period of extreme heat, and we will be offering extended hours at sites across New York," Governor Hochul said.
On Thursday and Friday, state parks such as Hither Hills in Montauk, Orient Beach on the North Fork, Wildwood in Wading River, and Heckscher in Huntington will be open for an extra hour until 7 p.m. The pool at Montauk Downs will be open until 6:30 p.m. Although the East End’s other bays and oceans will not be open for extra time, they are still a great way to beat the summer heat.
The Department of Environmental Conservation notes that these high temperatures are contributing to ground-level ozone and predicts that the pollutants will cause the Air Quality Index to rise above 100, an unhealthy number for sensitive groups.
The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is closely watching the forecast and heat index, and is ready to deploy resources and local emergency resources if needed.
The governor advises New Yorkers to keep hydrated but avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks; eat more fruits and vegetables and less protein and salty foods, which contribute to water loss; take cold showers; exercise before 7 a.m; stay out of the sun, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m; wear sunscreen and a hat, and never leave children or pets in a parked car even just for a few minutes.