100 degrees.
Maybe more.
New York City is set to smash past the 100-degree mark (about 38°C) this week. It would be the first time we’ve seen those highs in parts of the boroughs since 2012 if it sticks. But the number on the dial is almost irrelevant once the humidity kicks in.
The heat index is where things get nasty. The National Weather Service (NWS) says it will feel closer to 110°F (43°C).
“This is a significant heatwave,” says NWS meteorologist James Connolly. “People should take seriously.”
It is going to be very hot. For an extended period.
The “heat index”—which measures what you actually feel versus what the thermometer says—will hit 105°F early in the week. By midweek? Expecting 110.
That is why the NWS issued an Extreme Heat Warning for Wednesday. Followed by an Extreme Heat Watch from Wednesday night through Saturday.
What’s the difference?
Confidence. A “warning” means the forecasters are sure about what’s coming, much like winter storm alerts. Connolly made that distinction clear.
Central Park hasn’t topped 100°F since 2012 either. Historically the city’s data hub. The park’s all-time high sits at a staggering 106°F on July 9, 1.936.
Don’t get comfortable.
This isn’t just a local quirk. It is climate change driven, massive warm air currently parked over Kentucky. That mass is moving east.
Which means the East Coast gets cooked too.
Philadelphia? 104°F (40°C).
Baltimore and D.C.? 103°F (39°C).
The searing temps are hanging around through the July Fourth weekend.
“It’ll still remain hot,” Connolly said. “Right now the question is how hot it will be.”
We are finding out. Soon enough.
