Philadelphia, PA – A surge of dangerous summer heat is gripping the region today, with heat index values expected to climb as high as 104 degrees in Philadelphia, Trenton, Wilmington, and surrounding communities. The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory through 8 p.m. Wednesday for wide swaths of New Jersey, southeast Pennsylvania, and northern Delaware.
According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, the advisory covers key counties such as New Castle, Morris, Hunterdon, Somerset, Middlesex, Camden, Gloucester, and Ocean, as well as the Philadelphia metro area, Allentown, Reading, and Chester County. Meteorologists warn that “hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses,” especially for those without access to air conditioning.
Residents are urged to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, wear lightweight clothing, and remain hydrated. In cities like Cherry Hill, Norristown, and Morristown, local agencies are opening cooling centers and advising neighbors to check on elderly relatives and those without air conditioning. If you must work outdoors, take frequent breaks in the shade and watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion, including headache, dizziness, and nausea.
This level of heat is more typical of late July in the Mid-Atlantic, reminiscent of past heat waves that strained local utilities and emergency services. Authorities recommend limiting strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours, and stress that heat stroke is a medical emergency—call 911 if needed.
The heat advisory is set to expire at 8 p.m., but additional warnings could be issued if extreme conditions persist. Stay tuned for updates from the National Weather Service.
