Excessive Heat Warning, Ozone Action Day In Effect Through Thursday

Residents are being advised to use caution when going outside as an Excessive Heat Warning and an Ozone Action Day take effect through Thursday night.

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for Mercer, Burlington, Camden and Gloucester counties through 8 p.m. on Thursday night, July 13.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has also issued an Ozone Quality Action Day for Thursday in these areas as the temperature is expected to reach between 100 and 105 degrees.

An Orange alert has been issued for Thursday, meaning conditions will be unhealthy for sensitive groups. Sensitive individuals including the very young, the elderly, and persons with respiratory diseases such as asthma. These groups should avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the afternoon and early evening hours. In addition, fine particles are expected to reach the moderate category statewide.

An Excessive Heat Warning is issued when a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures is expected. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are likely.

Residents are advised to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors. Anyone who works or spends time outside is advised to reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening, and know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water to reduce risk during outdoor work. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments.

Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. In case of heat stroke, call 911. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.

Patch file photo