NJ Heat Wave: Extreme Temperatures, Thunderstorms In Forecast

NEW JERSEY - Prepare for extreme heat and increasing humidity as temperatures approaching 100 degrees or higher are expected to hit New Jersey this week.

A heat advisory has been issued across the state from Monday at noon to 8 p.m. on Wednesday as heat index values (apparent temperature) up to 104 degrees are expected.

The heat and humidity may last into Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. The service urges New Jerseyans to limit time spent outside as hot temperatures and high humidity can cause heat illnesses to occur.

The next three days will be hot and humid. Heat indices (apparent temperatures) will exceed 100 degrees in many areas during the afternoon hours. Take frequent breaks, drink plenty of fluids, and check on your neighbors and pets! #pawx #njwx #dewx #mdwx pic.twitter.com/yU8RaKetwU
— NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) June 28, 2021

The National Weather Service also says that lightning and non-thunderstorm wind is possible Monday and Tuesday with a slightly higher chance of lightning and severe thunderstorms on Wednesday and Thursday. Thunderstorms are also possible, though less likely, on Friday and into the weekend. Excessive heat is expected Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, with heat exhaustion or stroke likely with prolonged exposure.

The agency recommends that individuals drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should also never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

“When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening,” the agency wrote in a statement. “Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9-1-1.”

Here is the latest forecast:

Today: Mostly sunny, with a high around 88. South wind 10 to 15 mph.

Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. South wind 10 to 15 mph.

Tuesday: Sunny, with a high around 90. South wind 10 to 15 mph.

Tuesday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 72. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

Wednesday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Sunny, with a high near 90. South wind 10 to 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Wednesday Night: A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Some storms could produce heavy rain. Partly cloudy, with a low around 71. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

The National Weather Service issues a Hazardous Weather Outlook when there is a potential for severe weather events. In the counties listed below there is potential for severe thunderstorms and extreme temperatures:

• Sussex
• Warren
• Morris
• Hunterdon
• Somerset
• Middlesex
• Monmouth
• Mercer
• Salem
• Gloucester
• Camden
• Burlington
• Ocean
• Cumberland
• Atlantic
• Cape May