Philly Area Heat Wave Could Threaten 67-Year-Old Record: See Forecast

EASTERN PA — A powerful and dangerous heat wave is heading toward the greater Philadelphia area next week, bringing with it the most prolonged stretch of hot weather in nearly a year that could snap historic heat records.

The serious heat will hit on Monday, with a high of 91. High temperatures will rise to the mid to upper 90s throughout the rest of the week, depending on location in the region.

Philadelphia proper is forecasted to hit 95 on Tuesday, which is just one degree shy of the all time high temperature record for the day, which was set back in 1957.

"Philadelphia had an early taste of summertime heat with the mercury topping out at 90 degrees back on April 29, but the impending heat wave will be significantly hotter and longer," AccuWeather said. "The temperature will climb into the mid-90s several days in a row, with the hottest conditions expected around midweek."

Below is a glance at the National Weather Service's all time high temperatures for next week:

Powerful sunshine and high humidity will likely make the heat index notably higher, according to the forecast.

Health officials say that very young children, the elderly, and those with chronic medical conditions should especially take precautions during a heat wave. Friends, relatives, or neighbors should check on people who may be at risk.

Authorities issued the following tips to stay cool in hot weather:

• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
• If at all possible, try to get outdoor work completed during the morning to avoid the warmest part of the day
• Keep windows and interior doors open when running a fan at home
• Keep cool by seeking an air-conditioned building if available; if not, seek rest in the shade

Here's the full forecast:

Sunday
Sunny, with a high near 85. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming southeast in the afternoon.

Sunday night
Mostly clear, with a low around 64.

Monday
Sunny, with a high near 91.

Monday night
Mostly clear, with a low around 70.

Tuesday
Sunny, with a high near 95.

Tuesday night
Mostly clear, with a low around 71.

Wednesday
Sunny, with a high near 94.

Wednesday night
Mostly clear, with a low around 71.

Thursday
Sunny, with a high near 95.