South Jersey Could Feel Like 105 Next Week With Heat Wave

South Jersey Could Feel Like 105 Next Week With Heat Wave

South Jersey is about to get its first massive stretch of dangerous heat of the summer as a powerful heat dome settles over much of the eastern United States next week.

If you’ve been enjoying the recent weather, you’ll want to prepare now because temperatures are expected to climb quickly by the middle of the week.

Right now, the forecast shows some of the hottest weather arriving Tuesday through Thursday, with inland parts of South Jersey seeing afternoon highs well into the 90s. When the humidity is added in, it’ll feel even hotter.

According to the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, some inland communities, especially across Camden and Gloucester counties, could see heat index values reach between 100 and 105 degrees by Thursday.

The good news is that if you’re planning to spend time down the shore for the Fourth of July holiday, conditions will be a little bit more comfortable. Shore towns are expected to stay closer to 90 degrees thanks to the ocean breeze (thank God) but don’t let that fool you. It will still be hot and humid enough to take precautions if you’re spending long periods outside.

One thing that could make this heat wave especially uncomfortable is the lack of relief at night. Overnight temperatures may only drop into the 70s, making it harder for homes to cool down after sunset. That can become a real concern for anyone without air conditioning or people who have to work outdoors during the day.

Meteorologists say this is shaping up to become one of the most widespread heat waves of the summer so far, with much of the eastern half of the country experiencing similar conditions. South Jersey is expected to sit right in the middle of the hot, moisture-filled air mass, creating those oppressive conditions where it feels much hotter than the actual temperature.

If you have outdoor plans next week, whether it’s heading to the beach, working outside, or attending festivals and holiday events, it’s a good idea to plan around the heat.

Drink plenty of water throughout the day, take breaks in the shade or inside an air-conditioned building, and try to avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the afternoon.

I can’t stress enough, drink a ton of water and stay in the shade. 

Heat like this can become dangerous faster than many people realize. Older adults, young children, outdoor workers, and anyone with underlying health conditions are at the greatest risk for heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

The forecast does show signs that temperatures could begin easing as we head into the Fourth of July weekend, but there’s still some uncertainty that far out, and those details will likely change over the coming days.

Bottom line folks, South Jersey is in for several days of intense heat and humidity. If you haven’t checked your air conditioner, stocked up on water, or made plans to stay cool, now is the time. We’ll continue to monitor the forecast and provide updates if anything changes as we get closer to next week.

And lastly…. ONLY swim where there are lifeguards!!!