Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) today activated the City’s Heat Emergency Plan ahead of unseasonably hot conditions expected beginning tomorrow morning, with heat index forecasts reaching as high as 96 degrees in some parts of the city. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a heat advisory for 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 19, through 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 20.

The City’s Heat Emergency Plan brings together City agencies across New York City government to help New Yorkers stay safe during extreme heat. Key actions include opening cooling centers; expanding outreach to residents at highest risk, including older adults, people with chronic health conditions and people experiencing homelessness; issuing targeted alerts through the City’s Advanced Warning System; increasing public information efforts; monitoring health impacts in real time; strengthening coordination with utilities; and working with healthcare providers and community organizations to reduce risks and protect public health.

According to the NWS, heat index values across New York City are expected to range from 91-96 degrees Tuesday afternoon, with the highest values expected between approximately 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. in portions of the Bronx, northern Manhattan and Staten Island.

An Air Quality Health Alert remains in effect through 11 p.m. tonight, with an Air Quality Index of 105, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. Forecasted weather conditions could result in elevated air quality index levels through Wednesday. Exposure to poor air quality can increase respiratory stress, especially for people with asthma or allergies.

New Yorkers are urged to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours and seek air-conditioned spaces whenever possible. Residents should check on vulnerable neighbors and loved ones, recognize the warning signs of heat illness and help others who may be at greater risk.

In New York City, most heat-related deaths occur after prolonged exposure to heat indoors without air conditioning. Air conditioning remains the most effective way to stay safe during extreme heat, though many New Yorkers at highest risk may not have access to or use air conditioning.

To help New Yorkers find relief, cooling centers will be open across all five boroughs. Cooling center locations may have changed since last year. New Yorkers can find a nearby cooling center, including accessible and pet-friendly locations, by visiting the City's Cool Options Map or calling 311. Service animals are always permitted at cooling centers.

In addition to cooling centers, the City offers outdoor cooling resources, including spray showers and drinking fountains, through Cool It! NYC.

Department of Homeless Services (DHS) outreach teams will intensify around-the-clock operations across the five boroughs, implementing best practices and health guidance while engaging New Yorkers experiencing unsheltered homelessness and encouraging them to access shelter and cooler indoor settings. Outreach teams will also distribute water and other essentials while prioritizing the health and safety of vulnerable New Yorkers. Anyone who sees a homeless New Yorker who may need assistance is encouraged to contact 311 through phone or the City’s mobile app and request outreach services.

For more information and tips, visit nyc.gov/beattheheat or nyc.gov/beready.

New Yorkers are encouraged to stay informed by signing up for Notify NYC, the City's free emergency communications program, to receive free emergency alerts by texting NotifyNYC to 692-692, visiting the Notify NYC page, calling 311, following @NotifyNYC or getting the free Notify NYC mobile application for Apple or Android devices.