Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Sunshine blazes over Philadelphia this Wednesday as dangerous heat combines with a Code Orange air quality alert, putting thousands at risk along the I-95 corridor. Residents from Center City to the suburbs should brace for a high near 98°, with heat index values soaring as high as 102°. The National Weather Service and the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission warn that anyone outdoors—especially children, seniors, and those with respiratory conditions—faces a real health hazard.
According to NWS Mount Holly, a heat advisory remains in effect through 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 30th, across Philadelphia, Montgomery, and Bucks counties. High humidity will push “feels-like” temperatures into the danger zone, while ozone levels spike enough to trigger a Code Orange air quality alert for the metro. Sensitive groups are urged to stay indoors, limit strenuous activity, and keep hydrated. Anyone who must travel should stick to air-conditioned spaces and avoid heavy outdoor work, especially along heavily trafficked roadways like I-95 and Roosevelt Boulevard.
Transit riders and motorists may also see delays or heat-related incidents. Utility crews are on standby for possible power strain. Schools, camps, and employers are advised to schedule outdoor activities for early morning or move them indoors entirely.
Preparedness Tips:
- Drink water frequently, even if you’re not thirsty.
- Stay in air-conditioned areas.
- Check on elderly neighbors and those without cooling.
- Never leave pets or children in vehicles, even briefly.
The intense heat will linger until evening, with only modest relief overnight. Looking ahead, Wednesday night brings a slight chance of showers and storms. Thursday will see a bit more cloud cover, with a high of 85° and scattered storms likely, especially after 2 p.m.
Five-Day Philadelphia Weather Outlook:
- Wednesday, July 30: Sunny and dangerous heat, high 98°, heat index up to 102°. Slight risk of evening storms.
- Thursday: Showers and storms likely after 2 p.m., high near 85°.
- Friday: Cooler, high 77°. Mostly cloudy with a chance of showers and afternoon storms.
- Saturday: Drying out, sunny with a high near 80°.
- Sunday & Monday: Mostly sunny, highs near 84° Sunday and 86° Monday, with warm, comfortable nights in the 60s.
Stay tuned for updated advisories as summer’s grip holds tight. Warnings remain in effect for Philadelphia through Wednesday evening.
