Paterson residents feeling the heat

PATERSON, N.J. (PIX11) -- As the heat wave continues, urban areas like Newark and Paterson, N.J., become heat islands, making it even more unbearable to be outside when the temperatures climb above 90 degrees.

In Newark, Code Red remains in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday and emergency cooling centers are open.

In Paterson, cooling centers are open at the Paterson Public Library and Southside Branch Library.

Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh recognizes that the urban environment makes hot days even hotter.

“What compounds the situation even more is we are one of the most densely populated cities in the United States of America,” said Sayegh. “So that’s why we’re mindful that we have to open up these cooling centers.”

Lou Costello Pool is a popular option for Paterson families on hot days.

“It provides an opportunity for the kids to come out, learn how to swim, play, interact, do those kinds of things and stay cool on these hot days,” said pool supervisor Akmed Taylor-Kamara.

“This is really the best thing around for summer, for sure,” said Paterson mom Christina Liali, who brings her seven-year-old son Michael to the pool every day.