Soaring temperatures overwhelmed multiple high school graduation ceremonies in Paterson, New Jersey, on Monday, sending dozens of attendees to hospitals for heat-related illnesses.

More than 150 individuals were affected by extreme heat at Hinchliffe Stadium, prompting emergency declarations, multiple hospitalizations, and the cancellation of remaining outdoor school events, as the Western Journal reports.

The day began with elevated conditions, as around 50 people experienced symptoms of heat exhaustion during a morning graduation ceremony. Nine individuals were hospitalized, despite the presence of cooling resources and on-site emergency staff.

Additional ceremonies escalate crisis

In a follow-up ceremony held later in the day, conditions only worsened. About 100 more people required medical assistance, with seven transported to nearby hospitals as temperatures neared 100 degrees and the heat index reached 107°F.

Following the incidents, the Paterson Fire Department classified the events as a “mass casualty incident,” citing the high number of simultaneous medical cases.

First responders worked quickly to stabilize patients and treat overheating attendees on site.

Paterson Public Schools stated that they had implemented precautionary measures, including water, ice, shaded cooling zones, and on-site emergency medical technicians.

However, school officials said the heat still led to significant discomfort and required immediate care for many.

Attendees voice frustration over planning

Some attendees questioned the decision to hold outdoor graduations amid such high temperatures. One woman told CBS that the ceremony ended abruptly, adding, “They didn’t call nobody else’s name. They canceled it. All they did was say congratulations to everybody.”

Ciarra Bailey, graduating from Rosa Parks High School, described the physical toll she experienced. “It was exhausting. I couldn’t breathe, like, my chest hurts,” she told News 12 New Jersey.

Due to the rising number of medical emergencies, school officials decided to either cancel or substantially shorten all remaining ceremonies planned for the day. Crowds were gradually dispersed as paramedics continued to treat patients in designated aid zones.

City officials declare state of emergency

In response to the situation, Paterson Mayor André Sayegh announced a citywide state of emergency, citing “extreme heat” as a public health hazard. He posted the declaration on Instagram later in the day.

The mayor also ordered the immediate suspension of all outdoor recreational activities. City libraries were activated as cooling centers, offering residents free water and climate-controlled shelter during the heat wave.

The Weather Channel reported temperatures near 100°F during Monday’s events, intensifying through the afternoon.

Forecasts indicated continued dangerous heat, with Accuweather warning of some of the highest temperatures in over a decade hitting parts of the region.

Extreme heatwave triggers safety concerns

Many in the Paterson community expressed concern that more precautions should have been taken, given prior forecasts. One woman stated, “Everybody should’ve graduated last week when it was cool, because y’all knew this heat wave was coming.”

While no fatalities have been reported, health officials are urging residents to take extra care during outdoor activity. Symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and breathing difficulty can quickly become serious if left untreated in high temperatures.

Officials said they are reviewing event policies and weather contingency planning for future outdoor school functions. As the heat wave persists, city services remain on alert to ensure the safety of both students and the broader public.