Smithtown Opens Cooling Center As Heat Index Could Hit 110

SMITHTOWN, NY — The Town of Smithtown is opening a cooling center and extending hours at several recreation sites as Suffolk County braces for dangerous heat this week.

An Extreme Heat Watch has been issued by the National Weather Service for Suffolk County from July 1, through July 3, town officials said.

The Smithtown Senior Center will operate as a cooling center during the heat watch, giving residents access to an air-conditioned space during the extreme temperatures.

Smithtown splash parks will also open at 11 a.m. for the duration of the heat watch, and the pool at Landing Country Club will remain open until 6 p.m., officials said.

“With extreme heat and humidity on the way, we’re once again taking proactive steps to safeguard our residents — particularly seniors without air conditioning and families with young children,” Supervisor Ed Wehrheim said. “Our Public Safety team has designated the Senior Center as a climate relief site, and we’ve extended hours at our splash pads to give residents more opportunities to beat the heat.”

Seniors who may need access to a cooling location after regular business hours can make arrangements in advance by contacting Smithtown Public Safety at 631-360-7553. Public Safety operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Residents are encouraged to check on elderly neighbors, people with disabilities and anyone with special needs, town officials said. Officials also advised residents to make sure vulnerable neighbors have access to a phone, water, food and air conditioning, as well as someone to contact in an emergency.

The National Weather Service warned that dangerously hot conditions are possible, with heat index values ranging from 105 to 110 degrees, according to town officials. Coastal areas across southeastern Connecticut and Long Island could see peak heat index values closer to 100 to 105 degrees, officials said.

Extreme heat and humidity can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for people working or participating in outdoor activities.

Officials urged residents to use air conditioning when possible, spend time in air-conditioned spaces if they do not have cooling at home, and continue seeking cool spaces even after the heat breaks if their homes remain hot.

Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool, shaded location immediately. Heat stroke is an emergency, and 911 should be called in cases of suspected heat stroke.

Residents are also reminded not to walk dogs on hot concrete or asphalt, to limit exercise to early morning or evening hours, and to carry water for pets. Animals in distress, strays or loose domestic or wild animals can be reported to 631-360-7575.

For power outages, residents can view PSEG Long Island’s outage map or report outages by texting OUT to PSEGLI, or 773454. Residents can register for text updates by texting REG to PSEGLI. Downed wires should always be considered live, officials said. To report a downed wire, call PSEG Long Island’s 24-hour electric service line at 1-800-490-0075.