The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned that tens of millions of Americans are currently under heat advisories as high temperatures continue to impact the Midwest and East Coast this week. Much of the Midwest and Northeast was under heat warnings or watches. Officials announced the opening of cooling centers and urged people to limit outdoor activities when possible and to check in with family members and neighbors who may be vulnerable to the heat.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said on June 18 that she has activated the National Guard to assist in any heat emergencies that develop over the next several days. “This is a time of significant risk and we’re doing our best to make sure that all lives are protected,” she said during a morning briefing.
“However, heat-related illnesses and deaths are largely preventable with proper planning, education, and action,” FEMA said on June 17, adding that the people most at risk include older adults, people who work outdoors, people with certain health issues, and individuals who don’t have access to air conditioning. The agency then advised people to keep their children or pets from staying alone in hot vehicles, staying hydrated, using air conditioning, and checking air quality before going outside. “Fans alone aren’t enough in high heat and high humidity.
FEMA encourages people and especially those that are vulnerable to go somewhere with air conditioning or visit a public place like the library, museum, or shopping .
