City temperatures are expected to grow hotter by the day before hitting triple digits later this week.
The National Weather Service (NWS) is calling for a high of 88 degrees Tuesday. The mercury will reach the mid-90s Wednesday before soaring to 100 degrees on Thursday and Friday.
Meteorologists issued an “extreme heat watch” beginning Wednesday afternoon. A possible Tuesday night thunderstorm may cool things down briefly. There’s also a 20% chance of rain Wednesday afternoon.
The NWS warns that heat is likely to continue across the eastern U.S. through the Independence Day holiday weekend.
Accuweather blames the hot weather on “a sprawling heat dome” that will feel like 110 degrees to those outdoors.
“A heat dome occurs when a persistent region of high-pressure traps heat over a particular area, and it can linger for days to weeks,” according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
NWS’ meteorologist Alex Lamers likened a heat dome to a lid on a pot during a discussion with NPR.
“It’s a similar concept here: You get a big high-pressure system in the upper parts of the atmosphere and it allows that heat to build underneath over multiple days,” he said.
Challenging conditions will almost certainly impact New Yorkers gathering to watch fireworks displays on and around July 4. Federal and state agencies will observe Independence Day on Friday.
Lingering heat is also expected to make conditions sticky for soccer fans attending World Cup competition at MetLife Stadium when the round of 16 match gets underway there on Sunday. Though according to the Weather Channel, that afternoon match could be played on a day that hits a high of 89 degrees and finds itself sandwiched between Saturday night and Sunday night thunderstorms.
City officials blame the heat for killing more than 500 New Yorkers each year. Those who have to be outdoors are advised to wear lights clothes, use sunscreen, stay hydrated and seek shade.
NYC’s 311 line and website provide a list of cooling centers for residents needing relief from the heat.