By: Richard L. Smith
Good morning New Jersey.
We are waking up to another steamy morning across Newark and the North Jersey region with temperatures hovering in the lower 80s at 4:30 a.m.
It is currently 81 degrees in downtown Newark and already feeling very warm as we head into the third day of this ongoing heat wave.
Temperatures are expected to climb back into the mid-90s today, with heat index values pushing close to 100 degrees in some locations.
If you are headed out early this morning, definitely dress for summer weather and stay hydrated throughout the day.
The region remains under an AccuWeather Alert Day due to the dangerous heat expected this afternoon.
The intense heat is expected to break later today as showers and thunderstorms move into the region. Some storms could produce heavy rain and damaging wind gusts during the late afternoon and evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service, there is a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Increasing clouds are expected with a high near 94 degrees. West winds will range from 7 to 13 mph.
Tonight, showers and thunderstorms are likely before 11 p.m., followed by a chance of lingering showers overnight.
Skies will remain mostly cloudy with temperatures falling to around 59 degrees. Northwest winds around 8 mph are expected. 
Rainfall amounts are expected to remain under a tenth of an inch outside of thunderstorms, though locally heavier downpours are possible.
Have a great Wednesday New Jersey, stay cool and stay safe.