Government

Rockland County Under Heat Alert: Index Could Reach 110 Degrees

Published

1 year ago

June 23, 2025

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — June 23, 2025 — The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for Rockland County and the surrounding region, in effect through at least 8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 24.

Heat index values are expected to reach up to 110 degrees, creating dangerous conditions for all residents. The combination of extreme heat and high humidity can significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, particularly for vulnerable populations such as seniors, young children, and those working or exercising outdoors.

Health and Safety Recommendations:

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, typically from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and take frequent breaks in the shade or in air-conditioned areas.
Check on elderly neighbors, family, and others who may be at risk. Those without air conditioning should seek out cooling centers, as fans are not sufficient during extreme heat.

🧊 Cooling Centers Open Across Rockland County

Cooling centers have been activated across the county to help residents cope with the heat. To locate a center near you, visit:
🔗 rocklandcountyny.gov/government/cooling-centers

Always call ahead to confirm that a specific cooling center is open and operating during the posted hours.

🏥 Additional Resources

For more tips on how to stay safe during extreme heat events, the New York State Department of Health provides helpful guidance:
🔗 health.ny.gov/publications/1243

Government

Turn Food Scraps Into Compost with Rockland’s Recycling Program

Published

1 week ago

July 18, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

After a summer barbecue or family gathering, those leftover food scraps don’t have to end up in the trash.

Rockland County is encouraging residents to join its Food Scrap Recycling Program, which diverts food waste from landfills and turns it into nutrient-rich compost.

Food scraps that end up in landfills produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. By recycling items such as fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, eggshells, and other food waste, residents can help reduce emissions while creating a valuable resource for agriculture and landscaping.

County officials say the program is easy to join and can make a meaningful difference in reducing a household’s environmental footprint.

From banana peels and watermelon rinds to leftovers from backyard cookouts, every bit of food waste recycled helps keep organic material out of landfills.

Residents interested in participating can learn more and sign up through the county’s Food Scrap Recycling Program.

Government

Rockland Health Department Issues Hudson River Recreation Update

Published

3 weeks ago

July 5, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Rockland County Department of Health is advising residents that the Yonkers Wastewater Recovery Facility has been fully operational since July 3, while reminding the public to follow state health guidance when recreating on the Hudson River this holiday weekend.

According to the department, the New York State Department of Health and the Department of Environmental Conservation have been coordinating with Rockland and Westchester counties, New York City, and other partner agencies following the wastewater system disruption.

Health officials said residents should not drink untreated Hudson River water under any circumstances. They also advise against swimming or participating in activities that involve full-body immersion at beaches that remain closed.

However, officials said recreational activities involving partial contact with the water—including boating, kayaking, and fishing—are considered safe. Anglers are encouraged to review New York State Department of Health fish consumption advisories before eating their catch.

The Rockland County Department of Health said it will continue working with state and local agencies to monitor conditions.