State of emergency declared as extreme heat moves into Brooklyn
A new cooling center will open on Wednesday at 259 Bristol St. Health officials say the center is part of a broader effort to protect residents who may not have access to air conditioning or who face higher risks during heat waves.
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Extreme heat is expected to hit Brooklyn this week, with heat index values forecast to climb above 100 degrees. A statewide emergency has now been declared, and officials say Brownsville is among the neighborhoods most vulnerable to dangerous heat conditions.
A new cooling center will open on Wednesday at 259 Bristol St. Health officials say the center is part of a broader effort to protect residents who may not have access to air conditioning or who face higher risks during heat waves.
City pools have also opened for the season just in time for the heat, giving residents a place to cool off without running up their electric bills. News 12 was told 28,000 people came out for the start of the summer season over the weekend when temperatures were milder.
“I am thinking about that electric bill, so I am just happy to be outside and staying cool,” one resident said, adding it's a great resource particularly for children in the community.
Health experts warn that the heat will be intense enough that fans may actually increase the risk of heat stroke.
“It is air that is hotter than your body. You are just forcing your body to absorb it, like an oven," said Matthew Weissman, of Maimonides Hospital.
He says a quick fix for those with only a fan on hand can be to apply water to the body and clothes to allow for the air to evaporate and cool the skin.
"It's all about intervention before you feel hot, before you are thirsty when it is already too late," Weissman said. "Looking out for people who look hot, confused, clammy - those are the signs of heat exhaustion ahead of heat stroke."
Lines already stretched around the block at several city pools Monday, even with hoses spraying water to keep crowds cool. Health officials continue to urge New Yorkers to limit time outdoors, stay hydrated and check on vulnerable neighbors.
