New York City opens cooling centers as dangerous heat wave approaches

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani declared a heat emergency on July 1, 2026, as a powerful heat wave moved toward the city. Temperatures are expected to feel like 105 to 112 degrees Fahrenheit at the peak of the event, which could last around five days.

The city opened hundreds of cooling centres across all five boroughs, including options for people with disabilities and their pets. Outdoor pools will stay open until 8 p.m., one hour later than usual, and beaches are free to enter with lifeguards working from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Officials warned residents never to leave children or animals inside parked cars, where heat can become deadly within minutes. Workers from the Department of Homeless Services are distributing water and supplies to people living on the streets each afternoon.