59
New York City experienced its hottest May day on record today, with temperatures soaring to 97°F. The unseasonably high heat prompted officials to issue a heat advisory and open cooling centers citywide.
Con Edison reported a 20% increase in electricity usage as residents cranked up air conditioning, leading to isolated power outages in parts of Brooklyn and Queens. Emergency services responded to dozens of heat-related incidents, urging people to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities.
“This is a wake-up call about the realities of climate change,” said environmental scientist Dr. Mia Patel. The National Weather Service predicts slightly cooler temperatures in the coming days but warns of a hotter-than-average summer ahead.
