Update: Southold Town opens a cooling center in Peconic

The National Weather Service issued an Excessive Heat Watch to warn residents of scorching temperatures in the forecast this weekend.

The heat watch is in effect from noon Saturday through 10 p.m. Saturday evening, according to the NWS. An Excessive Heat Watch means that the combination of heat and humidity could create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are possible.

Temperatures are expected to climb into the lower 90s with heat index values up to 105 Saturday, according to the NWS.

Southold Town officials urged all residents to take “necessary precautions in light of the oppressive heat.” The town also opened a cooling center at the Southold Town Recreation Center on Peconic Lane in Peconic. It will remain open until 8 p.m. Friday, and will reopen Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday is expected to be hot as well with a high temperature of about 92. Friday’s forecast calls for a high of about 86.

Seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions are at increased risk. Homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoors, the NWS said.

“Extreme heat can cause illness and death among at-risk population who cannot stay cool,” the NWS said.

To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. In case of heat stroke, call 911.