Two heat waves in two weeks have led to high demand for the county's pools and beaches.

About 14,000 people visited Westchester's four pools and two beaches over the weekend as the heat wave continues to scorch the area.

 

Officials say 6,000 people were out on Saturday and another 8,000 on Sunday.

County pools, like Saxon Woods in White Plains, were once again packed Tuesday.

People arrived early to get wristbands because there are a limited amount due to coronavirus capacity concerns and a high demand to cool down. 

"This is my first time coming to the pool actually since the pandemic hit, so really this is my first time back so I'm not sure what to expect. I came a little early so I could get in, so the kids could enjoy the pool for today," says swimmer Kerryann Reid.

The numbers are showing a high demand for both places for people to cool off and get out of the house as coronavirus has limited many other options.

While the county has had success running its pools, a pair of town-run pools shut down last week after employees tested positive for coronavirus.

Hommocks Pool in Larchmont remained closed Tuesday, but plans to reopen Wednesday. Mount Pleasant Pool is also back open after two lifeguards tested positive.

In other parts of the Hudson Valley, places have hit capacity like Lake Welch Beach at Harriman State Park in Rockland over the weekend.  

Overall, County Executive George Latimer praises his team's efforts for successfully ramping up recreational activities.

"I'm pleased that we're able to open the pools and give relief to people, and the turnout is significant, but we're monitoring, all the time, the spread of the coronavirus and while we manage two beaches and four pools, we have Health Department responsibilities for every pool in the county, private or municipally public," he said.