MOUNT HOLLY, N.J. – Residents across much of New Jersey are facing another stretch of dangerous summer heat after the National Weather Service issued a Heat Advisory covering large portions of the state through Saturday evening.
The advisory, issued by the National Weather Service office in Mount Holly, takes effect at 10 a.m. Thursday and remains in place until 8 p.m. Saturday. Forecasters expect afternoon heat index values to climb as high as 103 degrees while warm, humid nights provide little opportunity for relief.
The advisory includes parts of central, southern, and portions of northern New Jersey, including Mercer County, Middlesex County, Somerset County, Monmouth County, Gloucester County, Camden County, Burlington County, and Ocean County.
Hot afternoons and muggy nights ahead
Thursday will be mostly sunny after early morning fog dissipates, with temperatures reaching around 92 degrees. Combined with high humidity, it will feel closer to 102 degrees during the afternoon.
Conditions remain uncomfortable Thursday night as temperatures only fall into the mid-70s. Patchy fog is expected to redevelop overnight, with a slight chance of late-night showers or thunderstorms.
Friday brings another hot day with highs near 91 degrees and heat index values approaching the advisory threshold again. A chance of afternoon and evening thunderstorms could provide localized relief, although some storms may produce heavy downpours.
Saturday is expected to be similar, with mostly sunny skies, highs around 91 degrees, and another opportunity for scattered afternoon thunderstorms before the advisory expires Saturday evening.
By Sunday, forecasters expect sunshine to return with highs still near 91 degrees, though humidity levels may begin to ease slightly in some areas.
Why the heat is dangerous
While daytime temperatures in the lower 90s are common during August, the combination of high humidity and warm overnight temperatures increases the risk of heat-related illnesses because the body has less opportunity to cool down.
The National Weather Service warned that “hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses,” adding that the lack of overnight cooling could make prolonged exposure especially hazardous for vulnerable populations.
Officials recommend drinking plenty of water, remaining in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible, avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and checking on elderly relatives, neighbors, and anyone without reliable cooling.
Workers spending extended periods outdoors should take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration also recommends adjusting work schedules when possible to reduce heat exposure.
Local Impact
The prolonged heat will be felt across many of New Jersey’s most populated communities, including Trenton, New Brunswick, Freehold, Mount Holly, Cherry Hill, Camden, and Jackson. The combination of high temperatures and humidity could increase electricity demand as residents rely heavily on air conditioning.
Outdoor workers, youth sports participants, landscapers, construction crews, delivery drivers, and anyone attending festivals or recreation activities should plan for frequent hydration and rest breaks. Drivers should also remember never to leave children or pets inside parked vehicles, where temperatures can become deadly within minutes.
What Happens Next
The Heat Advisory remains in effect until 8 p.m. Saturday. Forecasters will continue monitoring temperatures and humidity, and additional heat alerts could be issued if conditions worsen or persist into next week.
Scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms are possible Friday and Saturday, but they are not expected to provide widespread or lasting relief from the heat.
Sources
Reporting for this article is based on:
- National Weather Service Mount Holly
- National Weather Service Heat Advisory
- National Weather Service forecast discussion
- National Weather Service forecast for central New Jersey
FAQ
- When does the Heat Advisory begin?
It begins at 10 a.m. Thursday and remains in effect until 8 p.m. Saturday. - How hot will it feel?
Heat index values may reach as high as 103 degrees. - Which parts of New Jersey are included?
Much of central and southern New Jersey, including Mercer, Middlesex, Somerset, Monmouth, Gloucester, Camden, Burlington, and Ocean counties. - Will thunderstorms cool things down?
Scattered thunderstorms are possible Friday and Saturday, but they are expected to provide only temporary, localized relief. - How can residents stay safe?
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned spaces when possible, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the afternoon, wear lightweight clothing, and check on vulnerable family members and neighbors.
Key Points
- A Heat Advisory is in effect for much of New Jersey from Thursday morning through Saturday evening.
- Heat index values could reach 103 degrees, with warm, humid nights offering little relief.
- Residents are urged to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor activity during peak heat, and monitor vulnerable family members, neighbors, and pets.
