By Y.M. Lowy

New York City officials are warning residents to prepare for unusually hot weather beginning today, with temperatures expected to feel as high as 96 degrees in some parts of the city.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced that the city’s Heat Emergency Plan has officially been activated as the National Weather Service issued a heat advisory running until Wednesday evening.

Cooling centers will open across all five boroughs to help residents stay safe during the heat. Use air conditioning whenever possible, stay hydrated, avoid too much time outdoors during the hottest parts of the day, and check in on elderly relatives, neighbors, and others who may be more vulnerable.

The early season heat can be especially dangerous because many people are not yet used to these temperatures. Health officials warned that fans alone may not be enough during extreme heat and stressed the importance of finding cool indoor spaces.

The city is also dealing with poor air quality conditions, which could make breathing more difficult for people with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions.

New Yorkers can find nearby cooling centers, including pet friendly and accessible locations, by calling 311 or using the city’s Cool Options Finder online.