ITHACA, N.Y. –– As temperatures are expected to hit highs well into the 90s across Tompkins County, officials have now alerted residents to a National Weather Service heat advisory in effect for this afternoon.
Officials are asking that people take extra caution to stay cool as “hot temperatures combined with high humidity could cause heat-related illnesses to occur,” according to the Tompkins County Department of Emergency Response in a press release.
“Heat is one of the leading weather-related killers,” said Geoff Dunn, Community Preparedness Coordinator with the Department of Emergency Response. “Far and away, the most important things you can do are to drink plenty of water, stay in an air-conditioned room and out of the sun as much as possible.”
Officials add that those who work or spend time outside should take extra precautions and know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. “If you can, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening, stay hydrated, and wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible,” the press release regarding the advisory states.
Additionally, if you are working outdoors 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 and shaded location and call 9-1-1.
“Young children and infants, the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat and humidity,” said Dunn. “Never leave children, seniors, or pets unattended in a car, even for a few minutes.”
The hot, humid weather is set to last beyond this afternoon as well. Heat index values are expected to reach into the mid-90s again Wednesday and Thursday afternoons. For more information, visit the Tompkins County Health Department website at: https://tompkinscountyny.gov/health/summer/heat or www.ready.gov/heat.