Heat wave hits Philadelphia region, bringing in extreme heat warnings, air quality alerts
The heat is here! Time to make a heat plan: where to cool off, who to check on, special care for pets and limited time outdoors.
Sunday through Wednesday, the heat will reach dangerous levels with highs between 97 and 102 degrees. The feels-like temperature (also known as the heat index) will range from 103-110 degrees, and overnight lows will hover near 80, bringing no relief.
There are chances of isolated pop-up storms each day simply because of the heat and humidity. Some storms could briefly turn severe with wind, hail, downpours and lightning as the main threats.
Heat warnings, advisories, air quality concerns
Multiple weather alerts and advisories are in effect because of the heat wave.
- Extreme heat warning: An extreme heat warning is in effect now until Wednesday evening for all of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware counties along the Interstate 95 corridor. At these temperatures, heatstroke and heat exhaustion are possible. The cumulative effect of the extreme heat from Saturday to Wednesday can lead to additional health problems.
- Heat advisory: A heat advisory also goes into effect Monday until Wednesday evening for South Jersey away from I-95, the Jersey Shore, southern Delaware and the Poconos.
- Air quality alert: There is also a code orange air quality alert in effect for the entire Philadelphia region, except the Poconos, Lehigh Valley and Berks County until midnight. The elderly, small children and those with respiratory problems should stay indoors as much as possible. Concerned about the air quality in your neighborhood? Check out to see how conditions are in your area.
Because of this dangerous heat, a NEXT Weather Alert is in place now through Wednesday.
How to stay cool in Philadelphia
The City of Philadelphia's Department of Public Health has declared a heat health emergency, effective Sunday at noon and lasting until Wednesday night. The emergency could be extended if this week's forecast takes a turn for the worse and the heat wave continues.
, the city has activated its emergency heat programs, including Philadelphia's Corporation for Aging's Heatline, cooling centers, home visits by special field teams and enhanced daytime outreach for those experiencing homelessness.
A full list of , spraygrounds and pools in Philadelphia is available .
Tips on how to survive the heat wave
Make sure to hydrate with nonalcoholic and non-sugary drinks. Spend time in the air conditioning, and if overheated, try a cool shower.
Never leave people or pets in a car; the heat builds quickly, and it can be deadly in minutes. Check on family and friends.
Finally, keep pets indoors or in a shaded area with clean, cool water. Don't walk dogs on the hot pavement; their paws can burn.
It is likely we will set a number of new record highs each day and new record high-lows at night.
Looking for a cooler spot for the next several days? Then head to the Pacific Northwest and northern Rockies, where highs will be in the 40s, 50s and 60s with snow at the highest elevations.
Heat wave facts
- Last year's first heat wave lasted from June 18 to 23, and the most recent heat wave of 2024 occurred at the end of July. Both topped out at 98 degrees.
- Our last 100-plus degree day? July 7, 2012, when we hit 101 degrees.
- And the longest heatwave on record? A whopping 12 days back in 1901, including two scorchers over 100 degrees.
Here's your 7-day forecast:
Sunday: NEXT Weather Alert for extreme heat. High 97, Low 80
Monday: NEXT Weather Alert for extreme heat. High 101, Low 80
Tuesday: NEXT Weather Alert for extreme heat. High 102, Low 80
Wednesday: NEXT Weather Alert for extreme heat. High 100, Low 81
Thursday: Afternoon storms. High 96, Low 79
Friday: Scattered storms. High 86, Low 71
Saturday: A few showers. High 88, Low 72
