Over 150 People Got Sick During Graduation Ceremonies Due To Extreme Heat

More than 150 attendees at two high school graduation ceremonies fell ill due to extreme heat on Monday (June 23). Temperatures soared to nearly 100 degrees, in Paterson, New Jersey, causing a 'mass casualty' incident, according to local officials. Sixteen individuals required hospitalization for severe heat exhaustion.

The first ceremony, held from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., included graduates from International High School and John F. Kennedy High School. During this event, approximately 50 people were treated for heat-related issues, and nine were transported to the hospital. The second ceremony began at 12:30 p.m. for Eastside High School and P-TECH High School. As temperatures continued to rise, about 100 people needed medical attention, and seven were hospitalized. The second ceremony was cut short due to the increasing number of heat-related illnesses.

Paterson Fire Department Deputy Chief Jason Macones explained that the extreme heat led to the health issues. Despite precautionary measures such as cooling stations, cold bottled water, shaded areas, and large fans, the heat caused significant discomfort. Superintendent Laurie Newell noted that the district had implemented these measures to ensure safety. However, the graduates sat on artificial turf, and family members were seated in concrete grandstands, with no shade available.

Mayor Andre Sayegh had suggested holding the ceremonies indoors, but the events proceeded outdoors. By 3 p.m., temperatures at Newark Liberty International Airport reached 101 degrees, setting a new record high for June 23.