New Yorkers are being urged to prepare for dangerous heat as a heat advisory takes effect Thursday afternoon and continues through Friday evening.

News 12 forecasts predict it could feel as hot as 100 degrees at times because of the combination of high temperatures and humidity. The advisory is in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday and again through 8 p.m. Friday.

To help people stay cool, New York City is opening more than 600 cooling centers across the five boroughs.

City leaders are encouraging people to spend time in air-conditioned spaces if they do not have air conditioning at home. Cooling centers, libraries, community centers and other public buildings can provide relief during the hottest parts of the day.

Older adults, young children and people with chronic health conditions face a higher risk of heat-related illnesses.

City leaders recommend drinking plenty of water, limiting strenuous outdoor activity, wearing lightweight clothing and checking on family members, neighbors and friends who may need assistance.

The city is also monitoring the chance for thunderstorms on Thursday and Friday evening, which could bring heavy rain, gusty winds and localized flooding.

Con Edison says crews are prepared for increased demand on the electric system and are asking customers to conserve energy when possible by setting air conditioners to the highest comfortable temperature and avoiding the use of large appliances during the hottest parts of the day.

New Yorkers can find the nearest cooling center or other cool indoor spaces by visiting NYC Beat the heat NYC.gov/beattheheat or by calling 311.