Sweltering heat and a risk of severe storms are hitting the region today, with heat index readings over 100° and isolated thunderstorms forecast between 2 and 9 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, a large portion of southeastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and northern Delaware will have dangerously high apparent temperatures, peaking at 105° in Reading, 103° in Philadelphia, and 101° in Dover. A Marginal Risk (Level 1) of severe thunderstorms is in force, particularly northwest of the I-95 corridor. The primary danger is damaging wind gusts.
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Heat indices in Allentown, Trenton, Vineland, and Toms River are also above 102°, adding to residents’ stress, particularly those without air conditioning. In response, cooling centers have opened in several cities. Residents are advised to stay inside, drink water frequently, and limit outside activity.
Scattered afternoon storms may bring brief downpours and strong winds, but only a 20-30% probability of severe weather is predicted. These conditions are identical to Tuesday’s sweltering heat.
Another wave of heavy storms is forecast for Thursday afternoon, with the possibility of flash flooding.
