Soaring temperatures are forcing some schools across the Hudson Valley to adjust schedules and send students home early.
High humidity is already making conditions uncomfortable, with dangerous heat expected throughout the day.
In Pelham, district officials made the decision to dismiss Colonial, Prospect Hill and Siwanoy schools at noon due to the heat. School leaders say the decision comes as temperatures are expected to climb into the 90s, with heat index values nearing 100 degrees.
Officials are also following a new state law that limits classroom temperatures. The law sets a maximum of 88 degrees inside classrooms. If that level is reached, students must be removed.
Once temperatures hit 82 degrees, schools are required to take steps to cool rooms, such as using fans and turning off lights.
School officials say protecting students from extreme heat is the top priority.
Families are urged to check school websites for updates, as more early dismissals could be announced.