By: Richard L. Smith
Good morning and happy Thursday!
We are waking up under dangerous heat across Newark and the North Jersey region as a powerful heat dome continues to grip the state.
Today and Friday are expected to be the hottest days of this prolonged heat wave.
Even before sunrise, temperatures are already around 86 degrees, but with the humidity it feels closer to 93 degrees.
By this afternoon, heat index values could soar to 110 degrees, with some locations across New Jersey feeling as hot as 115 degrees.
Skies are crystal clear this morning with not a cloud in sight, allowing the blazing July sun to quickly push temperatures into the triple digits.
According to the National Weather Service, today will be sunny and dangerously hot with a high near 102 degrees.
Southwest winds will remain light at 3 to 7 mph, offering little relief. Tonight will stay unusually warm and clear, with overnight lows only dropping to around 82 degrees.
If you don't have to be outdoors, stay inside in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible.
Drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and check on elderly neighbors, young children, and pets.
Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly in these conditions.
Have a safe Thursday, New Jersey.