SEASIDE HEIGHTS, N.J. — After three consecutive weekends of rain dampened shore tourism, New Jersey beach towns are finally bracing for a major turnout as a prolonged heat wave is expected to settle in starting this weekend, bringing sunshine and highs into the mid-90s.
Forecasters expect mostly sunny skies and temperatures reaching 88 degrees on Saturday, with the warmup continuing into next week. Sunday is projected to hit 92 degrees, with Monday and Tuesday climbing to 94 and 96 respectively. Shore officials say the streak of dry, hot weather could give businesses a much-needed boost following repeated weather-related setbacks.
“People are tired of waiting for summer to start,” said a Seaside Heights boardwalk vendor. “This weekend, we’re expecting full crowds for the first time all month.”
The past three weekends brought persistent clouds, rain, and fog, keeping day-trippers and weekenders away from boardwalks and beaches. Local businesses dependent on shore traffic reported sluggish sales and unusually quiet boardwalks heading into what is typically peak season.
Relief will come just in time for the Juneteenth holiday on Thursday, when temperatures are forecast to hit 92 degrees with only a 40% chance of late-day storms. Friday and Saturday are expected to stay mostly dry, with highs near 85 and 88 respectively.
Storms midweek before clear stretch arrives
The warm spell follows several midweek disturbances. The National Weather Service reported patchy fog and a 20% chance of showers on Tuesday afternoon, with temperatures in the low 70s. Showers and thunderstorms are likely Wednesday into Wednesday night, with highs around 86 degrees and a 70% chance of precipitation.
Showers are expected to taper off late Wednesday, with skies clearing into Thursday morning. The remainder of the holiday weekend looks favorable for sunbathers and boardwalk-goers, though pop-up storms could still develop during the hottest afternoons.
With ocean temperatures warming into the low 70s, lifeguards are preparing for larger crowds and rip current risks. Shore towns like Point Pleasant Beach and Asbury Park are increasing staffing for the weekend and encouraging beachgoers to use guarded swim zones.
