Tristate area heats up

Some of the hottest temperatures of the season arrived Monday throughout the Tristate area.

Partly cloudy skies with hazy, hot and humid conditions can make for a dangerous combination. The high Monday was expected to reach the low to mid-90s with humidity making it feel more like 105 degrees.

Rain was in the forecast for the afternoon for parts of the area. Long Island saw some heavy downpours around 5 p.m.

An Air Quality Health Advisory was in effect for New York City from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. In addition to the city, the advisory includes Long Island, and Westchester and Rockland counties.

In New Jersey, an excessive heat warning was in effect until 8 p.m. for Mercer, Gloucester, Camden and northwest Burlington counties. A heat advisory was in effect for most other parts of the state.

Officials say people should drink plenty of water, wear light clothing and avoid strenuous activity outside when temperatures are at their highest.

Active children and adults and people with respiratory problems should reduce prolonged outdoor activities or heavy exertion.

During a news conference Monday, Mayor Bill de Blasio warned New Yorkers to limit outdoor activities and remain in an air conditioned environment.

Anyone without air conditioning is encouraged to visit any of the 500 cooling centers throughout the city. To find a cooling center near you, call 311.

Pets should not be left outdoors during extreme heat. Children and pets should not be left in vehicles.

Thousands of homes and business in the tristate area lost power. Utilities also lowered voltage in some areas to ease the burden on the grid.