Dangerous Heat, Storms, Wildfire Smoke Prompt Morris County Warning

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — Morris County officials are urging residents to take precautions as dangerously hot temperatures, possible severe thunderstorms and wildfire smoke are expected to affect the area through the end of the week.

According to the Morris County Office of Emergency Management, today's heat index is expected to range between 100 and 109 degrees, with air temperatures climbing into the upper 90s and near 100 degrees. The National Weather Service says the hottest conditions of the week are expected today, with hot and humid weather continuing through Friday, July 17.

Officials are encouraging residents to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and spend time in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible. They also urge residents to check on older adults, neighbors and others who may be especially vulnerable to the heat, and remind the public never to leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle.

Residents looking to cool off can find local cooling centers through the Morris County Office of Emergency Management's cooling center webpage or the statewide NJ 211 directory, which is updated regularly by county and local emergency management agencies. Anyone needing assistance locating a cooling shelter can also contact their municipal Office of Emergency Management or police department, or call 2-1-1 (or 1-877-652-1148).

Officials said anyone experiencing signs of heat-related illness should call 911 immediately. Symptoms include a body temperature of 103 degrees or higher, hot or red skin, a rapid pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, or loss of consciousness.

Forecasters are also calling for a chance of isolated severe thunderstorms between 4 p.m. and 11 p.m. Thursday. Storms could produce damaging wind gusts, small hail, brief heavy rainfall and frequent cloud-to-ground lightning, with localized tree damage, power outages and road closures possible.

Adding to the weather concerns, smoke from Canadian wildfires is expected to move into the region beginning Thursday night and could linger through Friday or Saturday. People with asthma, COPD, heart disease or other respiratory conditions are encouraged to monitor local air quality and consider limiting prolonged outdoor activity if conditions worsen.

The county is also encouraging residents to sign up for Smart911, a free emergency service that allows first responders to access important information about residents and their household members during emergencies.

The Morris County Office of Emergency Management said it will continue monitoring weather conditions and coordinating with local, county, and state partners. Residents are encouraged to monitor trusted weather sources throughout the day and ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather alerts.