Philadelphia, PA – A Heat Advisory is in effect across the Delaware Valley Thursday as hot temperatures and high humidity combine to produce dangerous conditions capable of causing heat-related illnesses.
According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, the advisory is in effect from noon until 8 p.m. EDT Thursday for New Castle County in Delaware; Mercer, Camden, Gloucester and northwestern Burlington counties in New Jersey; and Delaware, Philadelphia, eastern Chester, eastern Montgomery and lower Bucks counties in Pennsylvania.
The advisory includes major population centers such as Philadelphia, Trenton, Wilmington, Cherry Hill, Camden, Mount Holly, West Chester, Norristown, Lansdale, Media, Glassboro, Doylestown and Kennett Square.
Forecasters expect heat index values around 100 degrees during the afternoon as high humidity combines with summer temperatures to create dangerous conditions. While actual air temperatures will be lower, the added humidity will make it feel significantly hotter, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke for anyone spending extended time outdoors.
Health officials encourage residents to drink plenty of water throughout the day, stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during the hottest part of the afternoon. Outdoor workers should take frequent breaks in shaded or cooled areas, while strenuous exercise should be postponed until the early morning or evening hours.
Those most vulnerable include older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions and anyone without access to adequate cooling. Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbors and family members during the advisory period.
The Heat Advisory is scheduled to expire at 8 p.m. EDT Thursday, though forecasters recommend continuing to monitor updated forecasts if additional hot weather develops.
