Philadelphia, PA – Dangerous heat is expected to peak across the Delaware Valley on Wednesday, with much of eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and northeastern Maryland under either an Extreme Heat Warning or Heat Advisory as heat index values climb well above 100 degrees.
According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, highs will reach the upper 90s to near 100 degrees, while humidity will push heat index values between 100 and 109 degrees during the afternoon. The most dangerous conditions are expected from late morning through early evening.
Communities including Philadelphia, Allentown, Reading, Trenton, Wilmington, Atlantic City, Toms River, Dover, Cape May, and Long Branch are expected to experience oppressive heat. Some inland locations could see actual air temperatures near 100 degrees, while the “feels-like” temperature may exceed 105 degrees.
Forecasters also note that Canadian wildfire smoke may filter into the region Wednesday, potentially creating hazy or smoky conditions. In addition, isolated thunderstorms are possible late in the day, mainly north of Philadelphia, though most areas are expected to remain hot and dry.
Residents are urged to limit strenuous outdoor activities, drink plenty of water, wear lightweight clothing, and check on older adults, young children, and anyone without reliable air conditioning. Never leave children or pets unattended in parked vehicles, where temperatures can rise to dangerous levels within minutes.
Stay alert for changing weather conditions Wednesday evening as isolated storms develop across northern portions of the region.
