With back to back rainy weekends to close out spring, we New Yorkers have been crossing our fingers to finally get some summer weather–but we may have manifested too hard, guys.
This Friday, June 20th, is the summer solstice, or the first day of summer. And according to AccuWeather meteorologists, the day is going to bring with it RealFeel temperatures of 90º, a UV index clocking in at 11, which is considered “extreme,” and 52% humidity. But the hot temperatures don’t stop there–and, actually, they get worse.
A brutal heatwave is on its way to scorch NYC with some seriously hot temperatures over the next several days–and we all know how harsh summer in NYC can be to begin with. The messy forecast kicks off tomorrow, Thursday, June 19th, with 90º heat and the chance of severe thunderstorms. Though while the storms will clear by Friday, the heat is sticking around.
AccuWeather meteorologists are warning of a “bubble of heat” drifting slowly across the United States into next week will bring the highest temperatures of the year so far, with some areas reaching triple digits. Not only that, the sun will also beat down on us with some of the most intense sunshine of the year along with high humidity levels.
The National Weather Service is forecasting it to be around 100º in NYC by Monday, June 23rd. NBC meteorologists noted that humidity will be ramping up along with the temperature, too, so we should expect the heat index to be well into triple digits next week. NWS meteorologist Dave Radell stated:
We basically have a pretty warm and, and humid air mass that’ll be building over the area during that timeframe, and that will result in these very warm and humid temperatures and heat indices…When we combine those really hot temperatures with the humidity during that period, we’re going to have, heat indices — or real feel-temperatures, the feel-like temperature on your body — warmer than that.
AccuWeather’s daily forecast for Manhattan next week is as follows:
- Monday 6/23 – High: 92º | RealFeel: 100º | UV Index: 11 (extreme)
- Tuesday 6/24 – High: 94º | RealFeel: 101º | UV Index: 11 (extreme)
- Wednesday 6/25 – High: 94º | RealFeel: 100º | UV Index: 11 (extreme)
- Thursday 6/26 – High: 93º | RealFeel: 98º | UV Index: 10 (very high)
- Friday 6/27 – High: 92º | RealFeel: 98º | UV Index: 5 (moderate)
It is important to note that not all of NYC will experience the same heat–for example, according to Accuweather, the Bronx will be the hottest area during the heat wave, with temperatures reaching 96º on Monday and then going up to 103º on Tuesday.
With what meteorologists are forecasting, NYC will see its first heat wave of the season, which is characterized by three consecutive days of 90-plus-degree temperatures. NBC writes:
This is the type of heat is dangerous, especially because it is coming on so quickly, before our bodies have any chance to acclimate to it. Because of this, be extra careful outside next week. Limit your time outside, limit strenuous physical activity, stay in the shade as much as possible, and drink plenty of water.
Because of the forecast, the risk of heat-related illness will rise sharply, and residents are encouraged to minimize physical exertion during the midday and afternoon hours when RealFeel temperatures will be at their highest–and 5-15º above the actual temperature. Officials are encouraging those without AC to visit cooling centers throughout the city.
NYC’s Cooling Assistance benefit is also helping New Yorkers stay cool this summer with financial aid for a new AC unit or fan–more on this and how to apply.
And don’t forget about your pups–officials are urging to bring pets indoors during the heat wave and make sure they have plenty of water. You should also avoid walking dogs during the day as the pavement can burn their paws. If you can’t hold your hand on the pavement without getting scalded, it’s too hot to walk your pet.
Here are the best ways to stay cool during an NYC heat wave.