Community Corner

Heat Wave Continues Across South Shore

Day two of a mini heat wave is packing temperatures ranging from 90 to 95 across Long Island.

Long Island is in the midsts of its third heat wave of the summer with today's highs in the lower 90's in West Islip and a third day of 90+ degree weather expected tomorrow.

Temperatures yesterday hit 90 degrees at Farmingdale Republic Airport, kicking off the start of this latest blast of heat. A heat wave is technically defined as three straight days of high temperatures reaching 90 degrees or higher.

The National Weather Service has issued an Air Quality Alert for Long Island today. The alert is issued when air quality levels in outdoor air are expected to have a large amount of pollutants such as ground level ozone. Long periods of warm temperatures cause pollutants to sink in the air towards ground levels, making it harder for the very young and elderly to breathe correctly.

Find out what's happening in West Islipwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Wednesday will be the day to look forward to as the heat wave will break when a cold front pushes through our area late Wednesday afternoon. The NWS has stated already there will be a high chance of strong to severe thunderstorms popping up across the area bringing torrential downpours, high winds, large hail and large amounts of lightning.

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Looking to keep cool? Here are some simple tips on what to do and where to go:

  • Light Clothing – Wear bright colors like whites, yellows, etc. and loose fitting clothing to avoid absorbing and maintaining additional heat.
  • Keep Hydrated – Keep a cool bottle of water with you. Dehydration can set in quickly and water is obviously the easiest way to keep the body cool.
  • Sunblock – Sunblock will not only prevent a sunburn, but allows the skin a small layer to reflect sunlight. It won't keep you much cooler, but it does help.
  • Hit the Beaches – All local Town and Village beaches are open for the season. Without a permit, entrance fees range between $15-30 and all open at 10:00 a.m.
  • Spray Parks & Pools – There's no doubting a quick swim always helps regulate the body's core temperature. All village and town parks have opened for the season as well.
  • Find Shade Often – If you have to be outside during the day, take five-to-ten minute breaks every hour and sit in the shade. Temperatures tend to be up to 10 degrees cooler there.
  • Check the Summer Guide – Need to head somewhere to cool down? Check out our Summer Guide for everything going on around the area today!

West Islip Patchwill be monitoring the area's weather throughout the day and bring you any updates on potential changes.

Tell us below what you're doing to keep your cool.


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