Dangerous Heat in NY and PA: Feels-Like Temps Near 110°

The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat watch that stretches across 16 counties in Central New York and Northern Pennsylvania. Starting this morning and lasting through 8 p.m. Wednesday, forecasters warn it could feel as hot as 110 degrees with the humidity factored in.

Where the Heat is Hitting Hardest

The heat watch is already in effect across a wide stretch of Central New York and Northern Pennsylvania. Counties included in the alert are Northern Oneida, Yates, Seneca, Southern Cayuga, Steuben, Madison, Southern Oneida, Cortland, Chenango, Otsego, Delaware, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Northern Wayne, Pike, and Southern Wayne.

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Cities feeling the brunt of the dangerous heat include Hornell, Rome, Norwich, Honesdale, Montrose, Monticello, Seneca Falls, Damascus, Penn Yan, Utica, Delhi, Oneonta, Walton, Hamilton, Corning, Cortland, Boonville, Equinunk, Hallstead, Oneida, Milford, and Auburn.

What a “Heat Watch” Really Means

A heat watch isn’t something the weather service throws out lightly. It means that dangerously hot conditions are likely, not just possible. If the forecast continues to trend toward these extreme temperatures, that watch could turn into an excessive heat warning, which is the highest alert level.

What It’ll Feel Like

The actual air temperature will be high, but what’s even more concerning is the heat index, or the “feels like” temp. With sweltering humidity, your body may feel like it’s stuck in 105 to 110-degree heat. That can lead to serious health issues, especially for people working outside or without access to air conditioning.

Take It Seriously

The National Weather Service is sounding the alarm: heat-related illnesses spike dramatically during these kinds of weather events. Things like heat exhaustion and heat stroke can sneak up fast. People most at risk include outdoor workers, older adults, kids, and those without reliable ways to cool down.

How to Stay Safe

• Drink a lot of water.
• Avoid direct sun and stay in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.
• Check in on elderly neighbors or family members.
• If you work outside, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) says to take regular breaks in the shade or AC and to know the signs of heat illness.

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Know the Warning Signs of Heat Stroke

If someone is showing signs of confusion, a rapid pulse, hot and dry skin, or has stopped sweating, they may be suffering from heat stroke. Move them to a cool spot and call 911 immediately. It’s a medical emergency.