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As New York City prepares for what officials say could be its most severe heat wave in more than a decade, Mayor Zohran Mamdani is urging residents to help reduce pressure on the city's power grid by making a few simple changes at home.
In a post shared on X on July 1, the 34 year old mayor encouraged New Yorkers to set their air conditioners to 78 degrees, switch off lights and electronics when they are not in use and unplug devices that are not needed as temperatures continue to rise.
"It's hot out there, and the power grid is working overtime to keep us cool," Mamdani wrote, stressing that small actions taken by residents could make a significant difference.
The mayor also outlined measures the city is taking to lower electricity demand. Government buildings are being kept at 78 degrees, lights are being dimmed or turned off during periods of peak energy use and non essential equipment is being powered down. Private organizations have also been encouraged to adopt similar energy saving practices.
Mamdani said maintaining a stable power grid is essential during extreme weather because it ensures air conditioning systems remain operational, helping protect lives throughout the city.
Earlier that day, the mayor shared a video warning residents that the approaching heat wave could become the most intense New York City has experienced in more than ten years.
According to Mamdani, temperatures could climb to around 100 degrees, while the heat index may make conditions feel as high as 112 degrees. The dangerous weather is expected to continue through the Independence Day holiday weekend.
He advised residents to remain indoors in air conditioned spaces whenever possible, particularly children, older adults, people living with heart or respiratory conditions and pets, who face greater health risks during periods of extreme heat.
For those without access to adequate cooling at home, the mayor encouraged them to visit one of the city's designated cooling centers.
Mamdani also reminded New Yorkers to recognize the warning signs of heat stroke, including confusion, dizziness, nausea and difficulty breathing. He urged anyone witnessing those symptoms to call emergency services immediately.
The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning for New York City beginning July 1, along with an extreme heat watch lasting through the evening of July 4.
During his public updates, Mamdani also made a lighthearted reference to the widely rumored wedding of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce at Madison Square Garden. He joked that anyone getting married there would at least be staying indoors and cool during the heat wave.
The mayor added that the city has already activated its Heat Emergency Plan, bringing together agencies across New York to prepare for the dangerous conditions and protect residents throughout the expected period of extreme temperatures.
