Ashtyn Asay 
A dangerous stretch of summer weather has been forecasted for much of New Jersey just ahead of the Fourth of July weekend. The National Weather Service has issued extreme heat watches for the entire state, with heat index values expected to climb as high as 110 degrees in some areas. In addition to the upcoming heat, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has issued an air quality action day for Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Passaic and Union counties through 11PM on Monday, June 29th due to elevated ground-level ozone. Keep reading to learn about the upcoming heat wave coming to New Jersey.
Extreme Heat Expected Across New Jersey
The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat watch for all of New Jersey from Wednesday, July 1st through the evening of Saturday, July 4th. Coastal Atlantic, Cape May, and Ocean counties are expected to see slightly lower heat index values up to 105 degrees, while inland areas could experience heat index values from 108-110 degrees.
⚠️🥵 Dangerously hot and humid conditions will build Wed-Sat. High temperatures of 95-105° and heat indices of 100-110° are forecast during this period for our entire area, including area beaches and mountainous areas. Hottest Thurs-Fri. Be prepared if traveling for the holiday. pic.twitter.com/eZmuImUfU2
— NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) June 29, 2026
Another concern is the lack of overnight relief. The National Weather Service says overnight low temperatures are expected to remain in the mid-70s to low 80s, preventing homes and buildings from cooling down between days and increasing the health risks associated with prolonged heat. The combination of several consecutive days of extreme temperatures and warm nights is expected to amplify the impacts of the heat wave. According to the National Weather Service’s Mount Holly office, if temperatures pass 100 degrees later this week as officials anticipate, this will be the first year since 1988 that the temperature has been both below zero and over 100 degrees.
Read More: Where to Find Cooling Centers in Hudson County
How to Stay Safe
The National Weather Service warned that the anticipated extreme temperatures and humidity will significantly increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities. Residents are urged to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible, avoid prolonged time in the sun, and to check on family members, friends, and neighbors, particularly older adults and those with chronic medical conditions.
“Homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoor temperatures,” said the NWS. “Use air conditioning to stay cool at home or go to a place that has air conditioning. If you don’t have home air conditioning, continue to seek out cool spaces each day as long as it remains hot, and for a few days after if your home is still hot.” A list of cooling centers by county is available here, or by calling 211.
Air Quality Alert Remains in Effect Monday
Ahead of the heat wave, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has issued an air quality action day for Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Passaic and Union counties through 11PM on Monday, June 29th. The alert means ground-level ozone concentrations may approach or exceed unhealthy levels. Children, older adults, people with respiratory conditions, and anyone spending extended periods outdoors should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the afternoon and evening. Also be sure to regularly check on the status of events and Fourth of July celebrations, as the extreme conditions may force cancellations or postponement.
For more information and to stay updated, visit the National Weather Service’s website here.
See More: Where to Find Cooling Centers in Essex County
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