Extreme Heat Alert Issued for Wednesday Across New Jersey

Our community needs to prepare for dangerous heat conditions as the National Weather Service has issued extreme heat alerts for all 21 New Jersey counties for Wednesday, July 15, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

While temperatures at the Shore are projected to reach the upper 90s, high humidity will make conditions feel significantly worse. Forecasters say the heat index—what the temperature actually feels like to the human body—will climb to 102 degrees in Cape May County and as high as 109 degrees elsewhere across the state.

This alert comes on the heels of a deadly heat wave that gripped New Jersey from July 1 to July 6. During that six-day period, the state recorded 29 heat-related deaths—a dramatic increase from only six heat-related fatalities during the entire summer of 2025. These sobering statistics underscore the serious health risks posed by extreme heat conditions.

State officials are urging residents to take precautions to stay safe during Wednesday's heat emergency. The guidance is straightforward but critical: drink water before you feel thirsty, limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and seek out air-conditioned spaces whenever possible. Never leave children or pets in a parked car, even for a brief period.

Recognizing the warning signs of heat-related illness could save a life. Heat exhaustion symptoms include dizziness, nausea, and heavy sweating. Heat stroke—a medical emergency—presents with confusion, rapid pulse, and hot, dry skin. State officials emphasize that anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical help.

We're also asked to look out for our most vulnerable neighbors during this heat alert, particularly the elderly and small children who are at heightened risk for heat-related complications.

The extreme heat is also placing strain on our electrical infrastructure. Electricity grid operator PJM Interconnection has issued a hot weather alert to transmission and generation personnel to prepare for expected increases in electricity demand as residents crank up air conditioning to cope with the oppressive conditions.

There may be some relief in sight. As moderate cooling occurs on Thursday and over the weekend, thunderstorms could develop bringing their own hazards—strong winds, heavy downpours, and potential coastal flooding.

For additional information and resources on staying safe during extreme heat, New Jersey has compiled a heat and safety resources guide available online. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and look out for one another as we weather this dangerous heat together.