New York governor Kathy Hochul on Monday declared a state of emergency in several counties due to a massive heatwave that is on track to break a 125-year-old record, reports the New York Post.She urged all New Yorkers to stay informed about the weather and take necessary precautions as extreme heat and severe weather conditions are expected to continue over the next few days.The governor declared a state of emergency in 32 NY counties in response to the extreme weather conditions. A cluster of severe thunderstorms impacted regions across the North Country, Central New York, the Southern Tier, and the Capital District. This resulted in uprooting of trees and disrupting power lines, infrastructure damage and massive power outages.The state had already witnessed flash floods over the weekend. Forecasters warned that the heatwave stretching across the Northeast could push temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit on any day this week, with high humidity making it feel even hotter.According to forecasts, temperatures in New York City were expected to reach around 100 degrees Fahrenheit on Monday and soar to a sweltering 102 degrees on Tuesday. These temperatures have already shattered previous records, including the 96 degrees mark recorded in Central Park back in 1888.
Severe storms in Central New York on Saturday night brought strong winds and heavy rainfall toppling trees and damaging homes. At least three people were killed in Oneida County, including young twin girls, according to the Oneida County Sheriff’s Department.In a press release, Hochul said, “Our hearts break for the tragic loss of life during last night’s storms, and my administration has been in touch with local elected officials offering support.”“State emergency response personnel are already on the ground providing resources and assistance as we work to recover from this severe weather and restore power quickly,” she added.
