Paterson reschedules HS graduation ceremonies amid heat-related cancellations
Mayor Andre Sayegh declared a state of emergency on Monday after multiple people were sickened by the heat.
Paterson officials announced a new date for high school graduation ceremonies that were interrupted on Monday due to extreme heat.
The ceremonies will now be held on Thursday at John F. Kennedy High School and Eastside High School.
Mayor Andre Sayegh declared a state of emergency on Monday after multiple people were sickened by the heat and had to be treated for heat-related injuries at high school graduation ceremonies at Hinchliffe Stadium.
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Fifty people, including students and spectators, needed treatment. Nine were taken to the hospital, according to the mayor.
"It was exhausting. I couldn't breathe, like my chest hurts," said Ciarra Bailey, of Rosa Parks High School. "There were people fainting around us," said Emmanuel Avila Burnett.
Cooling centers are open at Paterson Free Public Libraries from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Water will be available at Paterson Main Public Library and Northside Public Library.
All recreational events are canceled until further notice.
