Beat the Heat! How to Stay Cool in and Around NYC During a Summer Heat Wave

Summer has officially arrived—and so has the heat. Today begins the first heat wave of summer 2025, with temperatures soaring into the high 90s and expected to reach triple digits this week. The feels-like temperatures will be even more scorching.

According to the City of New York, an extreme heat event is defined as a heat index of 100°F or higher for at least one day, or 95°F or higher for two or more consecutive days.

In response, the NYC Emergency Management Department and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene have issued a heat advisory. They’re urging New Yorkers to check on elderly neighbors, vulnerable friends, and family members, and to take proactive steps to stay safe and cool.

Psst… Check Out Our Guide to Staying Safe in the Sun This Summer

Why Heat Waves Are a Serious Risk

Though we often associate summer heat with beach trips and ice cream, extreme temperatures can be dangerous and sometimes deadly. Heat waves are sometimes called a silent killer because their effects aren’t always obvious. High temperatures pose serious risks not only to seniors but also to babies, young children, people with asthma or heart conditions, pregnant women, and anyone with underlying health issues.

Stay ahead of the heat by monitoring health alerts. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) HeatRisk Map shows heat intensity across the country, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) publishes a UV Index Scale that can help you monitor sun and heat conditions in your area.

Where to Cool Off In and Around NYC

Although it’s hot, it doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors all day. NYC is full of spots where you can beat the heat and have fun. Grab your swimsuits, slather on the sunscreen, and check out these local cool-down destinations—from splash pads and pools to shady parks and breezy waterfronts.

State Parks

Most state parks open on Memorial Day, but check the individual website for swimming rules. City pools are set to open June 27.

New York City

Marsha P. Johnson State Park

Gantry Plaza State Park

Roberto Clemente State Park

Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park

Long Island

Jones Beach State Park

Robert Moses State Park

Hither Hills State Park

Sunken Meadow State Park

Hudson Valley

Lake Welch State Park

Canopus State Park

Rockland Lake State Park

Tallman Mountain State Park

Bear Mountain State Park

Lake Tiorati Beach – Harriman State Park

How to Find a Cooling Center in NYC and Across New York State

With the first official heat wave of the summer underway, staying cool is more important than ever, especially for those without access to air conditioning at home. Fortunately, New York City and New York State have expanded resources to help residents beat the heat safely.

Cooling Centers in NYC: Cooling centers in city parks are designated, air-conditioned public spaces that are free and open to everyone, providing a safe haven during periods of extreme heat. Cooling centers in the five boroughs will be open in response to this week’s heat emergency.

Finding one is easier than ever thanks to the city’s newly revamped Cool Options Map. The map allows New Yorkers to quickly locate the nearest cooling centers and includes additional indoor cool-down spots like libraries, museums, and shopping malls.

Pet-Friendly Cooling Centers: In collaboration with PetCo, the city will open multiple cooling centers that welcome pets, ensuring both residents and their animals have a safe, cool place during extreme heat.

Cooling Centers Outside NYC: If you live outside the five boroughs, the New York State Department of Health also maintains a searchable Cooling Centers Directory. You can search by county or map to find nearby locations offering relief during extreme heat.

Tips for Staying Safe During a Heat Wave

The New York City Emergency Management Department and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene recommend the following tips to protect yourself and others during extreme heat:

Check on vulnerable individuals—especially older adults, young children, and those with health conditions—and help them find a cool place to stay.
Stay in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible, even for a few hours each day.
Avoid direct sun exposure and minimize sudden changes in temperature.
Limit strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat hours (typically 11 am to 4 pm.).
Drink water every 15–20 minutes, take frequent breaks in the shade, and keep an eye on teammates or companions when outdoors.
Eat small, frequent meals to help your body regulate heat more effectively.
Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to stay cooler.
Spend time in cool public places like libraries, movie theaters, museums, malls, pools, or beaches.

Remember, even if you don’t feel hot, stay hydrated and take breaks in cool spaces. Heat-related illness can creep up quickly—especially for children, seniors, and those with medical conditions.

Home Safety Tips

Ensure windows and doors have tight-fitting screens, and if children live in the home, install window guards to prevent accidents.

Never ever leave children or pets in vehicles, even for a short time—temperatures inside can rise to deadly levels within minutes.

Know the Signs of Heat Stroke

Call 911 immediately if you or someone else experiences:

Hot, dry skin
Rapid heartbeat or difficulty breathing
Confusion, disorientation, or dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Unresponsiveness or loss of consciousness

Don’t Forget About Pets

Take simple steps to keep your pets safe:

Make sure pets have plenty of fresh, cool water available both indoors and outdoors.
Limit outdoor activity; when outside, take frequent breaks in shaded areas.
Check pavement temperatures—hot surfaces can burn paws. Walk on grass when possible or use protective pet boots.
Never leave pets unattended in vehicles when temperatures are high.
Learn to recognize signs of heatstroke in pets, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or unsteady movement

While it’s tempting to blast the AC during a heat wave, conserving energy helps prevent brownouts and strain on the power grid. Here’s how to stay cool and conserve energy:

Set your AC to 78°F or to the “low” setting when at home.
Use appliances (ovens, dishwashers, dryers, etc.) early in the morning or late at night when outdoor temperatures are cooler.
Close doors to keep cool air in and hot air out while the air conditioner is running.
Keep blinds, curtains, and shades closed during the hottest parts of the day to block heat.
Turn off air conditioners, lights, and electronics when not at home (unless you have pets). Use timers or smart devices to turn the AC on 30 minutes before returning.
Clean AC filters regularly for maximum efficiency.
Let your utility company know if someone in your household relies on electric-powered medical equipment.

Psst… Check Out Our New York City Summer Bucket List for Families and Kids 2025

Beat the Heat! How to Stay Cool in and Around NYC During a Summer Heat Wave