Dangerous heat will continue across parts of New Jersey through Saturday, but cooler temperatures and increasing chances of showers and thunderstorms are expected by Sunday.
Mount Holly, NJ – The worst of New Jersey’s latest heat wave is expected Friday, with temperatures climbing above 100 degrees and heat index values reaching as high as 108 to 115 degrees before cooler weather begins moving into the region this weekend.
The National Weather Service has continued an Extreme Heat Warning through 8 p.m. Saturday for portions of central and southern New Jersey, warning that prolonged dangerous heat and warm overnight temperatures will significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Dangerous heat continues through Saturday
Friday’s forecast calls for sunny skies and a high near 102 degrees, with heat index values reaching 108 degrees. Conditions remain hot on Independence Day, with highs near 98 degrees and heat index values climbing to around 103 degrees before scattered afternoon thunderstorms become possible.
“The hottest conditions are expected to occur through today, however dangerous heat will continue through Saturday,” the National Weather Service said.
Forecasters also warned that overnight lows in the upper 70s and low 80s will provide little relief, increasing the cumulative impacts of multiple days of extreme heat.
Cooler weather and rain on the way
Relief is expected to arrive beginning Saturday night as scattered showers and thunderstorms develop ahead of a stronger weather system.
By Sunday, temperatures are forecast to fall into the upper 80s, with widespread showers and thunderstorms expected throughout the day and continuing into Sunday night. Some storms could produce locally heavy rainfall.
In addition to the heat, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has issued a Code Orange Air Quality Alert for Ocean County and southeastern Burlington County, where air pollution may become unhealthy for sensitive groups.
Officials urge residents to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, check on elderly neighbors and relatives, and never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
Key Points
- Temperatures will peak near 102 degrees Friday with heat index values up to 115 in parts of New Jersey.
- An Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect through Saturday evening for six counties.
- Cooler temperatures, showers, and thunderstorms are expected to arrive late Saturday and continue through Sunday.
Related: New Jersey, Extreme Heat Warning, National Weather Service, Ocean County, Burlington County, heat wave, air quality alert
