By: Richard L. Smith
Good morning, New Jersey!
We are waking up to another humid and uncomfortable morning across Newark and the North Jersey region as we close out the workweek.
At 4:30 a.m., temperatures are already sitting at 76 degrees in downtown Newark, and stepping outside feels more like walking into a steam room than the start of a June day.
The combination of heat and humidity will make conditions increasingly uncomfortable as the day progresses.
Heat index values are expected to climb near or above 100 degrees this afternoon, prompting health officials to urge residents to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activity, and check on vulnerable family members and neighbors.
Air quality alerts are also in effect for parts of the region, creating additional concerns for people with asthma, respiratory illnesses, and other health conditions.
If possible, residents are encouraged to remain indoors during the hottest part of the day.
Early morning temperatures around the state include 62 degrees in Montgomery, 71 in Sparta, 73 in Morristown, 76 in Newark, and 74 degrees in Toms River.
According to the National Weather Service, today will be mostly sunny with a high near 96 degrees.
There is a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms developing after 2 p.m. Heat index values could reach as high as 103 degrees. Winds will be out of the west between 7 and 11 mph.
Tonight, there remains a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11 p.m. Skies will become mostly cloudy with an overnight low around 69 degrees and northwest winds between 7 and 9 mph.
Residents should remain weather-aware this afternoon and evening as thunderstorms could bring brief heavy rain, gusty winds, and lightning.
Take it easy, stay cool, stay hydrated, and be careful out there, New Jersey.