Hot weather tips:
- Stay hydrated and avoid prolonged heat
- Use sunscreen when in direct sunlight for prolonged periods
Summer cooling centers are locations where members of the public can relax in a cool or air-conditioned environment without any need for payment or purchase. This is especially important for anyone with relevant underlying health conditions, anyone who works outside, or anyone without air conditioning or proper home ventilation. Hot weather emergencies are always more dangerous when there are power outages. Check on friends and neighbors to make sure everyone is all right, and help spread the word that there are places to cool down!
Some important local resources and forecast tools include:
Other information and resources:
Adhere to local travel bans!
Avoid unnecessary travel and check on friends and family during severe weather.
Travel Advisory, Road Closings, and Travel Bans
Protect against carbon monoxide:
- Carbon monoxide detector on every floor at waist level (test monthly)
- Don’t use generators or gasoline engines within 20 feet of your home
- Ensure any car or heating system has appropriate and unobstructed ventilation
- Beware of snow blocking car tail pipes if you get stuck in a blizzard!
- Don't try to heat your home with a gas oven
Protect against home fires:
- Smoke detector on every floor and near every sleeping area (test monthly)
- Fire extinguisher for each floor of your home
- Ensure all furnaces are clean, properly vented, and ready for use
Some important local resources include:
Check local power outages here:
Extreme weather is impacting the health and safety of communities across New York State. Rising temperatures, heavier storms, and changing precipitation patterns can directly and indirectly threaten people's well-being. These impacts affect where we live, work, and spend time. This can be especially harmful for vulnerable populations such as children, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions.
Protecting health in a variable environment means understanding the risks and taking action to reduce harm. Public health, housing, energy, food access, and emergency services all play a role in keeping people safe.
Health Risks from Extreme Weather
New Yorkers may be exposed to a variety of weather related-health risks, including:
- Extreme heat
- Flooding and heavy rainfall
- Drought and poor air quality
- More frequent and intense storms
How to Protect Your Health
You can take steps to stay safe and healthy during extreme weather:
- Stay informed about extreme weather alerts and air quality advisories in your area
- Use cooling centers or air-conditioned spaces during extreme heat events
- Prepare and emergency kit with medical supplies, water, and essential items incase of power outages or evacuation
- Reduce exposure to poor air quality by staying indoors on high pollution days and using air purifiers if available
- Check on neighbors, especially older adults or those with health conditions, during severe weather events
Programs and Resources for New Yorkers
Many programs are available to help individuals and communities stay safe and adapt to the health challenges brought on by extreme weather. The resources below offer tools, data, and community planning guidance to reduce risk and improve resilience.
Be aware of local flood hazards and never attempt to walk or drive through flooded areas. Floodwaters can be deeper and more dangerous than they appear.
Understand the risks of high winds. If you need to take shelter indoors, stay away from windows and seek protection in a secure area. During a tornado warning, go to a basement or a small interior room such as a bathroom or hallway, and keep the doors closed. If available, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture like a heavy table or desk.