Dangerous heat, high rip current risk bring double warning to NYC beaches
Older adults, people with health conditions and those without air conditioning may be especially at risk.
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New Yorkers looking to cool off Tuesday will need to watch out for both the heat and dangerous conditions in the water.
A heat advisory takes effect Tuesday across New York City and continues through 9 p.m. Wednesday. The combination of high temperatures and humidity could increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Older adults, people with health conditions and those without air conditioning may be especially at risk.
New Yorkers are encouraged to drink water throughout the day, take breaks in the shade or air conditioning if working outside and check on family members, friends and neighbors who may need help staying cool.
Anyone planning to head to the beach should also use extra caution.
A high risk of rip currents begins at 8 a.m. Tuesday and continues through Wednesday evening for Brooklyn and several other coastal areas.
Rip currents are powerful channels of water that move away from the shore. They can quickly carry even strong swimmers into deeper water.
Beachgoers should swim only near a lifeguard and pay attention to warning flags. If a red flag is posted, stay out of the water.
Anyone caught in a rip current should stay calm and avoid trying to swim directly against it. Experts recommend floating if possible, then swimming along the shoreline until clear of the current. Anyone unable to get out should face the shore and wave or call for help.
At Coney Island, longtime resident Nuraddin said he has a plan for the day.
“I’m trying to be close to the beach or under air conditioning. That’s going to save our lives,” Nuraddin said.
New Yorkers who do not have access to air conditioning can call 311 to find a cooling center nearby. Visit https://finder.nyc.gov/coolingcenters/ for a list of locations.
