Extreme Heat Hits New York City
New York City’s Central Park has hit a scorching 100 degrees for the first time in over ten years, as a severe heatwave is set to last through the July 4th holiday.
This unprecedented temperature marks the first occasion since July 18, 2012, that the iconic park has seen triple digits, making it one of the hottest days since 1966, as reported by meteorologists from the National Weather Service and AccuWeather.
Last summer, the reading in Manhattan Park only reached 99 degrees.
The mix of severe humidity and oppressive heat could push temperatures close to 110 degrees, with the intense weather likely persisting into Friday. It’s possible that the park may experience yet another day at 100 degrees, something that hasn’t happened since July 2011.
In fact, New York City recorded back-to-back days of triple-digit heat on July 22 and 23, 2011, and experienced similar conditions in July 2010 as well.
Meteorologists note that the only times the park has registered three consecutive 100-degree days were back in August 1948 and July 1993.
Historically, the city’s longest heatwave lasted for 12 relentless days from August 24 to September 4, 1953.
A dangerous heat dome is stretching across the East Coast and Midwest, nudging temperatures into the low 90s starting Wednesday, with the worst heat expected on Thursday and Friday.
Things might cool down a bit on Saturday with highs around 95 degrees, but severe thunderstorms and a 55% chance of rain could disrupt plans for the July 4th weekend.
Sunday is anticipated to mark the final day of this intense heat wave, with temperatures peaking at 90 degrees before a storm brings a return to normal temperatures by Monday.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat warning covering New York City, the lower Hudson Valley, Long Island, northern New Jersey, and western Connecticut from noon Wednesday until 9 p.m. Friday.
In response to the extreme weather, Mayor Zoran Mamdani has declared a heat emergency and launched a cooling assistance initiative. This program utilizes LINK NYC kiosks to guide residents to the nearest cooling centers for relief.
“The most important thing you can do in these temperatures is to stay indoors with air conditioning,” Mamdani emphasized during a press conference. He also urged people to avoid going outdoors during the hottest hours of the day if they can.
