Morris County urges heat safety as dangerous temperatures, wildfire smoke move into region
MORRIS COUNTY, N.J. — Morris County officials are urging residents to take precautions as dangerous heat, the threat of severe thunderstorms and smoke from Canadian wildfires are expected to affect the region this week.
The Morris County Office of Emergency Management said the National Weather Service is forecasting heat index values between 100 and 109 degrees today, with air temperatures reaching the upper 90s to near 100 degrees. Hot and humid conditions are expected to continue through Friday, July 17.
Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day and spend time in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible. Officials also recommend checking on older adults, neighbors and others who may be especially vulnerable to extreme heat and never leaving children or pets unattended in vehicles.
Cooling center locations are available through the Morris County Office of Emergency Management’s cooling centers webpage or the statewide NJ 211 directory at nj211.org/nj-cooling-centers, where locations and hours are updated by county and local emergency management agencies.
Residents who need assistance locating a cooling shelter may also contact their municipal Office of Emergency Management, local police department or call NJ 211 by dialing 2-1-1 or 1-877-652-1148.
Officials said anyone experiencing signs of heat-related illness — including a body temperature of 103 degrees or higher, hot, red, dry or damp skin, a rapid pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion or loss of consciousness — should call 911 immediately.
The National Weather Service is also forecasting a chance of isolated severe thunderstorms between 4 p.m. and 11 p.m. Wednesday. Storms could produce damaging wind gusts, small hail, brief heavy rainfall and frequent lightning, with localized tree damage, power outages and road closures possible.
In addition, smoke from wildfires in Canada is expected to move into the region beginning tonight and may linger through Friday or Saturday. Officials advise people with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart disease or other respiratory conditions to monitor local air quality and consider limiting prolonged outdoor activity if conditions worsen.
Residents are also encouraged to register for Smart911, a free emergency service that provides first responders with important household information during emergencies.
The Morris County Office of Emergency Management said it will continue monitoring weather conditions and coordinating with municipal, county and state partners throughout the week. Residents are encouraged to monitor trusted weather sources and ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and emergency information.
