More NJ Schools Close As Bergen County And Others Under Heat Advisory

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — With temperatures soaring into the 90s this week — and a heat index expected to reach as high as 104 — New Jersey residents are being told to check on seniors and stay hydrated.

A heat advisory is in effect for Bergen, Essex, Hudson, eastern Passaic, and Union counties until 8 p.m. Wednesday, and may be extended, the National Weather Service said. The advisory is in place for most, but not all, of the state's 21 counties (see the map of locations here.)

Some schools in North and South Jersey said they'd close early this week.

Belleville schools will have single-session days Thursday and Friday.

East Brunswick High School later announced the same.

West Orange schools will have an early dismissal Wednesday.

The NWS issued the following advisory:

Precautions

A Heat Advisory is issued when the combination of heat and humidity is expected to make it feel like it is 95 to 99 degrees for two or more consecutive days, or 100 to 104 degrees for any length of time.

Seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions are at an increased risk. Homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoor temperatures.

Use air conditioning to stay cool at home or go to a place that has air conditioning. Check on vulnerable friends, family members and neighbors.

To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! In cases of heat stroke call 911.

The NWS forecast for northeast New Jersey is here.

Hurricane Lee?

It's hurricane season, and New Jerseyans know the weather can change drastically from warm to chilly in September. But are those days over?

The National Hurricane Center expects Tropical Storm Lee to reach hurricane strength later. Current models also predict it staying at sea. Since it's a week away from the East Coast, anything can change. Track Hurricane Lee here.

What are your September plans and weather hopes? Tell Patch or comment below.