Dangerously hot weather continues to blanket the Rochester area.
Temperatures that peaked around 92 on Monday are expected to reach or exceed those highs on Tuesday.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory though 6 p.m. Tuesday, warning the heat index or "feels like" temperature could hit 104 degrees. High temperatures will remain in the 80s at least through Thursday.
State officials say that kind of heat can be deadly, and they are advising people to take necessary precautions.
According to state Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald, staying hydrated is job number one.
"This is a little over a quart of water," McDonald said, holding up a glass of water and ice, during a briefing with Gov. Kathy Hochul and other officials. "It's really quite a bit, when you look at it, right? But if you're outside working in the heat, and you're outside doing something, you need to drink one of these every single hour.”
Officials said it’s best to stay indoors with air conditioning or find a cooling center.
Locally, the swimming season at Ontario Beach Park officially began Friday, though the beach was closed to swimming due to water conditions, as was the city's Durand Eastman Beach.
Both beaches are open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Before heading to either beach, it's recommended that you call the county's information hotline to find out about water conditions and whether the beaches are open for swimming that day.
The spray park at Ontario Beach also is open for the season and was in operation Friday. Its hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, though during extreme heat it will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The city announced an abbreviated Cool Sweep until the heat lets up. Cool Sweeps usually begin on July 1.
During that time, the city's spray parks will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., as will its spray features at other parks. For locations visit the city's Cool Sweep page.
Several suburbs also have spray parks.
The Monroe County Department of Public Health has additional information about preventing heat related illnesses on its website.
Terry O'Leary, executive deputy commissioner at the state's Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, said it's also important for New Yorkers to take care of their pets during hot weather.
"Never leave pets unattended in vehicles, and know the signs of heat stroke in pets, including excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting and stumbling," he said.
He added that, just like people, animals need plenty of water and outdoor activities should be limited during weather like this. And to be mindful of pavement temperatures, because it can got hot enough to burn animals' paws.
