Albany, New York – Residents across eastern New York and parts of northwestern Connecticut have until Wednesday morning to prepare for a prolonged stretch of dangerous heat that could send heat index values above 105 degrees through Friday evening. The multi-day event is expected to bring oppressive humidity and increasing health risks across the Capital Region and Mid-Hudson Valley.
According to the National Weather Service in Albany, an Extreme Heat Watch is in effect from Wednesday morning through Friday evening for eastern Albany, western Rensselaer, eastern Greene and western Columbia counties, including Albany, Troy, Hudson, Catskill, Coxsackie, Athens and Cairo. The watch also includes eastern Ulster and Dutchess counties in New York, with communities such as Kingston, New Paltz, Poughkeepsie, Beacon, Pawling and Millbrook, along with southern Litchfield County in Connecticut, including New Milford, Thomaston, Oakville and surrounding towns.
Heat index values are expected to exceed 105 degrees, creating dangerous conditions for anyone spending extended time outdoors. The prolonged combination of high temperatures and humidity will significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for older adults, young children, outdoor workers and people without reliable air conditioning.
Residents should drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the afternoon and seek air-conditioned spaces whenever possible. Check on neighbors, relatives and others who may be especially vulnerable to the heat, and never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles, where temperatures can become deadly within minutes.
People without home air conditioning or adequate shelter can call 211 for assistance locating cooling centers or other available heat relief resources.
The Extreme Heat Watch remains in effect through Friday evening, and additional heat advisories or warnings may be issued as the event approaches. Continue monitoring updates from the National Weather Service and local emergency management officials throughout the week.
