Higher-than-Normal Temperatures Predicted for Next Three Months

This latest heat wave—so far this month we've had two—is expected to break tonight (the National Weather Service has a heat advisory in effect until 8 p.m. July 20). 

But more may be coming. 

The official 90-day outlook from the National Weather Servicepredicts above-normal temperatures for the Northeast. 

(Normal for the NYC area is a high of 84/low of 69 in July, and a high of 83/low of 68 in August. It's normal for New York City to have just 12 days a year—six of those in July—when high temperatures top 90, according to Current Results, a website of research news and science facts.)

Looking towards higher-than-average temperatures for the rest of the summer and into the fall, the American Red Cross Metro New York North offers a Heat Wave Safety Checklist. Safety is the operative word.

"In recent years, excessive heat has caused more deaths than all other weather events, including floods," the Red Cross says. 

Topping the list:

• Prepare for power outages 

• Drink fluids even if you're not thirsty

• Take frequent breaks if you're working or playing outdoors

• Check on your neighbors

• Check on your pets

For the entire Checklist, click on the pdf attached to this article.