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Ulster County has opened cooling centers in response to the high temperatures forecasted this week. The centers, located in Kingston and Ellenville, began operating at 9 a.m. on Monday (July 28). Kingston's center is at the 2nda Iglesia La Mision Church on Elmendorf Street, managed by Catholic Charities, and will remain open until 7 p.m. Ellenville's center is at the Trudy Farber Building on Center Street and will close at 5 p.m. Both centers will continue their operations through Wednesday (July 30) with the same hours.
The National Weather Service has predicted temperatures ranging from 90 to 100 degrees, with a heat index potentially reaching 97 degrees. These conditions pose a risk to vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, and those with chronic health conditions or without access to cooling.
The Ulster County Executive’s Office has advised residents to stay hydrated and use cooling centers if air conditioning is unavailable. The Family of Woodstock Hotline is available at (845) 338-2370 for those in need of assistance.
A heat advisory is in effect from noon to 7 p.m. on Monday, as reported by the Daily Freeman. Residents are urged to take precautions against heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke, and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.