Tag Archives: NYC extreme weather

Free AC Program

Free AC Program Ends as NYC Sizzles—Seniors Left to Sweat It Out

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As New York faces its first fierce heat wave of the season, the state’s free AC program is set to halt applications by 5 p.m. Monday—just when scorching temperatures are set to soar past 100°F. While relief reaches some through selective state and city plans, a silent worry shadows thousands of older New Yorkers left outside these support lines. With rising heat and vanishing aid, this tale of timing, exclusion, and survival unfolds beneath the city’s blazing skies—quietly turning discomfort into danger for its most vulnerable.

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

  • Applications for free ACs close Monday at 5 p.m.

  • Heat wave brings life-threatening temperatures near 100°F

  • New asthma-based AC program excludes senior population

  • Over 500 heat-related deaths occur annually in NYC

  • Advocates demand alternative options for vulnerable elderly

  • City claims over 300 senior centers are available for relief

As the city braces for a blistering heatwave with temperatures forecasted to hover dangerously close to 100 degrees, a critical state program offering free air conditioners to low-income residents is set to close applications by 5 p.m. Monday. For many New Yorkers—particularly the city’s vulnerable older population—the timing couldn’t be worse.

The program in question, the Cooling Assistance benefit under the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), has been active since April. It provides eligible applicants up to $800 for a window air conditioning unit or $1,000 for a wall-mounted sleeve unit. However, as demand spikes and temperatures rise, the application portal is being shut just when it is needed the most.

While cooling centers and assistance programs do exist across the city, advocates warn they do not fully address the specific challenges facing older adults—especially those who are homebound or suffer from mobility issues.

A separate state-level initiative announced last Friday by Governor Kathy Hochul aimed at offering free air conditioners targets only a very specific demographic—people between the ages of 19 and 64 who have persistent asthma and are enrolled in the Essential Health Insurance Plan. The age cut-off alone disqualifies many of the state’s most heat-vulnerable residents.

Allison Nickerson, executive director of LiveOn NY, a non-profit that supports older adults across the city, voiced deep concerns about the gaps in coverage.

“So it really leaves people with very little options,” Nickerson said in a phone interview.

“The city does offer cooling centers, which is phenomenal, but for people who cannot leave their homes, it is a serious concern.”

Many seniors live alone or suffer from chronic conditions that prevent them from accessing the very facilities meant to help them during heat emergencies. Even though over 300 older adult centers have been opened as cooling spaces across the five boroughs, the reality for many is that transportation, health, or isolation prevent them from taking advantage of these services.

Deputy Press Secretary William Fowler, representing City Hall, pointed to the city’s broader commitment to its senior population in response to the criticism.

“From launching the first-of-its-kind interagency cabinet for older New Yorkers, to building record numbers of affordable senior housing two years in a row, the Adams administration has always prioritized older New Yorkers,” Fowler stated.

“We are continuing to distribute free air conditioners and fans through our Cooling Assistance program and working to ensure that our older population stays cool and safe.”

Still, for those confined to their homes or living without proper cooling appliances, help remains elusive. According to data from the city, more than 500 people die prematurely every year due to extreme heat. The majority of those deaths occur among people aged 60 and older, often in households without air conditioning.

The National Integrated Heat Health Information System notes that older adults are statistically less likely to have or use air conditioners—not due to preference, but primarily because of the cost associated with electricity usage. As a result, many choose between running an AC unit and affording food, medication, or other essentials.

Earlier this month, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer warned of broader consequences. Referring to proposed federal budget cuts, Schumer cautioned that reductions to the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) could create impossible choices for families.

“Many families may be forced to choose between paying for air conditioning and other necessities such as food and medications,” Schumer had said.

With the state’s HEAP cooling funds likely to be depleted soon and the newly announced asthma-based program excluding older adults altogether, advocates say it’s time for lawmakers to act.

Nickerson emphasized the urgent need for more inclusive policies.

“In recognition that the new state AC program, which is part of the Essential Plan in New York State, does not include older people, there should be an alternative program for older adults,” she said.

“And in recognition that the HEAP program is running out, there should be an alternative.”

Despite repeated queries, Governor Hochul’s office has not responded to questions about whether additional relief measures for seniors are in the pipeline.

As the city endures scorching conditions with no immediate end in sight, advocates warn that unless swift action is taken, New York’s most vulnerable residents could once again be left to weather the worst—alone and uncooled.

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Thunder, Rain, and Heat: NYC Braces for a Weather Whiplash

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New York City stands on the edge of a dramatic weather shift, with forecasters warning of severe thunderstorms by Thursday followed closely by a blistering heat wave next week. The National Weather Service has placed parts of the region under a heightened alert, pointing to the risk of damaging winds, heavy rain, and even isolated tornadoes. As the skies darken, the air is expected to heat up, bringing dangerous temperatures into the high 90s. From storm alerts to heat warnings, New Yorkers are urged to stay weather-aware.

STORY HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Severe thunderstorms possible Thursday with damaging winds and heavy rainfall

  • NWS places NYC under Level 2 (Slight Risk) for severe weather

  • Wednesday brings moderate rain and thunderstorm chances

  • An isolated tornado or waterspout cannot be ruled out

  • Heat wave expected Sunday through Thursday with temps in the upper 90s

  • Heat-related advisories likely to be issued by the NWS

New Yorkers may want to keep both umbrellas and fans at the ready this week, as a dramatic shift in weather is set to impact the region. The upcoming forecast paints a picture of turbulent skies, marked by potentially severe thunderstorms, followed closely by an intense burst of summer heat. In what appears to be a textbook case of Mother Nature’s unpredictability, the Tri-State area will first face fast-moving storms before entering a period of potentially dangerous heat starting early next week.

While June is often known for its occasional thunderstorms and building heat, the next several days will bring a rather concentrated burst of both. The National Weather Service (NWS) has placed New York City and surrounding areas under a Level 2 out of 5 risk category for severe weather—what they term as a “Slight Risk.” This classification means there is growing confidence that certain areas will experience damaging winds, hail, and even the possibility of an isolated tornado.

The storm sequence is expected to start midweek. On Wednesday, a series of showers and possible thunderstorms may develop in the afternoon hours, particularly between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. As evening approaches, rain chances rise, with the possibility of thunder continuing past 5 p.m. Conditions will remain largely cloudy throughout the day, with temperatures peaking around 77°F. Rainfall could persist into the evening and night hours, tapering off slightly after 11 p.m., with lows settling around 72°F.

However, Thursday appears to be the more volatile day in the short term. Starting in the afternoon, after 2 p.m., forecasters are warning of a high likelihood of thunderstorms—some of which could turn severe. These storms could bring damaging wind gusts in excess of 58 mph, capable of snapping tree limbs, damaging property, and downing power lines. Along with that, heavy rainfall may lead to ponding on roads and minor flooding in low-lying urban areas. Thunderstorms could persist into the night, with conditions remaining unstable until about 2 a.m. when gradual clearing may begin. The high temperature during the day will climb to around 87°F, offering a humid and storm-fueled atmosphere.

FOX 5 NY meteorologist Audrey Puente noted that while Wednesday may bring its share of rumbles, the potential for stronger, more impactful weather exists on Thursday. The NWS echoed that sentiment, suggesting that alerts such as a severe thunderstorm watch could be issued depending on how conditions evolve through the day.

As if the turbulent skies weren’t enough, New Yorkers must also prepare for what could be the city’s first major heat wave of the season. Forecasters are pointing to a stretch between Sunday and Thursday of next week as the prime window for oppressive heat. While it remains uncertain whether temperatures will crack the triple-digit mark, current projections show highs regularly approaching the upper 90s. When factoring in humidity—which will likely remain elevated—conditions could feel even more stifling.

Although 100°F days in June are rare in New York City—having occurred only three times in recorded history—the upcoming heat event could come close. In anticipation of this, the NWS is expected to issue a range of heat-related alerts in the coming days. These may include heat advisories, extreme heat watches, or even warnings, depending on just how intense and long-lasting the hot spell becomes.

With severe weather on one end and intense heat on the other, this week is shaping up to test the city’s weather resilience. Residents are advised to monitor updates closely from the National Weather Service and local news outlets, avoid outdoor exposure during peak storm or heat periods, and prepare for the possibility of power outages or flooded streets.

From umbrellas to AC units, New Yorkers may need the full weather toolkit in the coming days.

As New York City prepares for a challenging stretch of weather, residents are urged to remain vigilant and informed. From the threat of damaging storms and potential tornado activity to the looming heat wave expected next week, the coming days demand caution and preparedness. Authorities will continue to monitor conditions closely, and timely alerts from the National Weather Service will play a key role in ensuring public safety. Whether braving the storms or the heat, New Yorkers should plan accordingly and stay tuned to official updates.

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