Dozens sought relief at this Ulster County swimming hole on Sunday
MID-HUDSON – Temperatures in many areas of the Hudson Valley were reported to have reached the century mark on Sunday with even more oppressive heat and humid again today.
Orange and Rockland Utilities has issued a Heat Advisory for today as the temps drive exceptionally heavy air conditioning use and its accompanying high electricity demand.
The company’s electric use forecast for Monday predicts demand to peak at 1,530 megawatts. O&R’s all-time electric demand peak record is 1,617 megawatts, set on August 2, 2006.
O&R issues a Heat Advisory if the electric demand is predicted to peak over 1,500 megawatts for the day or if the heat index is forecasted to reach over 100 degrees for two days or more.
Putnam County Health officials remind the public that outdoor activities should be undertaken in the early morning hours during oppressive heat.
Commissioner Dr. Michael Nesheiwat advised the public that heat stroke causes “several thousand deaths each year in the U.S. When a person’s body temperature surpasses 103 degrees, a variety of serious problems can occur ranging from brain and kidney damage to heart attack and muscle spasms. If you suspect someone has heat strike call 911 because the longer treatment is delayed, the higher risk of complications or even death.”
Heat exhaustion, less severe that heat stroke, is another heat related problem. Dr. Nesheiwat said signs of this illness include cold, pale, clammy skin, dizziness, fainting, nausea, muscle cramps and severe headache.
If you experience any of these symptoms, move to a cooler location and apply cool water to lower body temperature.”
Police caution to never leave children or animals in cars, even with windows open. That scenario can turn deadly in minutes.
