NWS Upgrades Extreme Heat Watch to Warning for Much of New Jersey

:Extreme Heat Warning Issued for Most of New Jersey Through Fourth of July Weekend. The fast of 17 Tamuz is Thursday  with temps at 104.

New Jersey is bracing for what forecasters say could be the state's most intense heat wave in 15 years, with the National Weather Service issuing an Extreme Heat Warning for much of the state from noon Wednesday through 8 p.m. Saturday.

The warning covers Eastern and Western Monmouth, Middlesex, Somerset, Ocean, and Southeastern Burlington counties, along with many other areas across New Jersey. Heat index values are expected to range from 100 to 110 degrees each day, with the hottest conditions forecast for Thursday and Friday.

"The intensity and length of the extreme heat will exacerbate impacts to both people and infrastructure," the National Weather Service said. Forecasters added that this could be the hottest stretch of weather the region has experienced since July 2011.

Adding to the danger, overnight temperatures are expected to remain in the mid-70s to low 80s, offering little relief and increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses over several consecutive days.

Residents are urged to:

Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.

Spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned buildings.

Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.

Check on elderly relatives, neighbors, and others who may be vulnerable to the heat.

Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles, where temperatures can become deadly within minutes.

Anyone experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion should move to a cool place, hydrate, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. Heat stroke is a medical emergency—call 911 immediately.

Officials also remind residents without access to air conditioning to call 211 or contact their county or state health department to locate cooling centers and emergency heat relief resources.

With dangerously high temperatures expected to continue through the Fourth of July holiday weekend, residents are encouraged to monitor the latest forecasts and take precautions to stay safe.