Monroe County Public Health Department urges everyone to take serious steps to prevent illness as extreme heat approaches the region

Monroe County, New York – As Monroe County prepares for a wave of dangerously high temperatures starting Sunday, public health officials are urging residents to take precautions to avoid serious heat-related illness. With a stretch of hot and humid weather expected to last through at least midweek, the Monroe County Department of Public Health is sounding the alarm, especially for vulnerable populations.

“Starting Sunday and lasting through at least the middle of next week, we expect dangerously high temperatures and humidity, with heat index values likely reaching well into the 90s or higher,” said Monroe County Commissioner of Public Health Dr. Marielena Vélez de Brown. “Extreme heat can affect anyone, but it’s especially dangerous for older adults, young children and people with chronic health conditions. It’s important to take steps to stay cool and hydrated—and to check in on family, friends, and neighbors who may be more at risk for heat-related illness.”

According to the Health Department, a heat index approaching or exceeding the upper 90s can pose a serious risk, even for healthy individuals. The combination of high heat and humidity slows the body’s ability to cool itself, increasing the risk of conditions like heat exhaustion or, in more severe cases, heat stroke.

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To help the public stay safe, officials have shared simple yet crucial tips. First and foremost: stay hydrated. The department advises drinking two to four glasses of water every hour, even if you’re not thirsty. People are also reminded to avoid sugary drinks, caffeine, and alcohol—all of which can speed up dehydration.

For those without access to air conditioning, health experts suggest seeking out cool public spaces like libraries, municipal buildings, R-Centers, or shopping malls. Spending even a couple of hours in a cooler environment can dramatically lower the risk of heat-related illness.

“Fans might offer some relief, but once it gets this hot, they just move the hot air around,” a health department spokesperson explained. “Air conditioning is far more effective, and even short-term exposure to cooler indoor temperatures can help prevent overheating.”

If being outdoors is unavoidable, residents are urged to keep physical activity to a minimum during the hottest parts of the day. Wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and staying in shaded areas can help minimize risk. Frequent breaks and plenty of fluids are a must.

Officials are also emphasizing the importance of recognizing the warning signs of heat-related illnesses. Heat exhaustion symptoms can include dizziness, muscle cramps, nausea, weakness, and irritability. Signs of heat stroke are far more severe—confusion, loss of consciousness, hot and dry skin, or seizures.

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“Knowing the symptoms can save lives,” health officials stressed. “If someone shows signs of heat exhaustion, get them to a cool place immediately, offer cool fluids, and use damp washcloths to cool them down. For heat stroke, call 9-1-1 right away and begin cooling the person with cold water or ice while waiting for emergency responders.”

This heat wave serves as a reminder that climate events once considered rare are becoming more common—and potentially more dangerous.

For additional information on staying safe during periods of extreme heat, residents can visit the Monroe County website at monroecounty.gov/eh-climate.

As the temperatures rise, the message from public health officials is clear: don’t wait until you feel sick. Take steps now to stay cool, stay safe, and look out for one another.