By: Richard L. Smith
Good Thursday morning, Jersey!
We’re waking up to day three of this summer heat wave, but today’s weather will be a little different. 
While it will still be very hot across Newark and much of North Jersey, smoke from the Canadian wildfires will filter the sunshine, helping to keep temperatures a few degrees lower than they otherwise would be.
If you’re already out the door at 4:30 a.m., it’s 79 degrees at Broad and Market streets in downtown Newark.
Air quality is the bigger concern today. Smoke drifting south from the Canadian wildfires will create hazy skies and reduced air quality across much of New Jersey.
If you have asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory conditions, it’s a good idea to limit time outdoors, especially during the afternoon.
Temperatures are getting a slightly cooler start around the state, with 68 degrees in Morristown and Somerville, 69 in Sussex County, 74 in Toms River, and 79 in Newark.
Humidity won’t be quite as oppressive as the past two days, but it will still be hot enough to take precautions if you’re spending time outside.
According to the National Weather Service:
Today: Patchy smoke. Mostly cloudy early, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 93. West winds will increase to 8 to 13 mph, with gusts up to 24 mph.
Tonight: Widespread smoke develops after 10 p.m. Skies will remain mostly clear with a low around 71 degrees. Northwest winds 5 to 10 mph.
Stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and check in on neighbors, seniors, and anyone without air conditioning.
Have a safe Thursday, Jersey!