TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey is sweltering under an intense heat wave Wednesday, with temperatures expected to reach 98 degrees and heat index values soaring as high as 104.
The National Weather Service has forecast a sunny and hot day statewide, with only light winds offering minimal relief. “Heat index values up to 104 degrees expected,” according to a weather alert.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued a Code Orange Air Quality Alert for Ocean County and southeastern Burlington County. The alert, in effect until 8 p.m., warns that air pollution levels may become unhealthy for sensitive groups.
Temperatures will cool slightly overnight, with a low around 74 and mostly clear skies.
Relief may come Thursday with an increased chance of showers and thunderstorms. Storms could bring heavy rainfall, particularly after 2 p.m. Temperatures are expected to drop to a high of 87 degrees. Rain chances climb to 60 percent, and storm activity may intensify into the evening.
By Thursday night, widespread showers and thunderstorms are likely, with some storms again bringing heavy downpours. Low temperatures will fall to around 67.
Rain is expected to persist through Friday, with continued thunderstorm chances and a high near 73. Winds will pick up from the northeast, reaching speeds of 10 to 15 mph and gusting up to 25 mph.
Conditions should improve Friday night, though a lingering chance of showers remains before skies turn mostly cloudy with a low around 61.
