AccuWeather Alert: Dangerous record heat through July 4th

AccuWeather forecast for NYC, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut

ByEyewitness News WABC logo

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Thursday marks day two of a five-day heat wave and some dangerous conditions. The heat index is expected to approach 110 degrees in parts of the area, while interior sections of New Jersey could see "feels-like" temperatures as high as 115 degrees.

An extreme heat risk is in place for Thursday and likely Friday, a designation reserved for rare, long-duration heat waves that offer little overnight relief and can significantly impact both public health and infrastructure. An extreme heat warning remains in effect through Thursday and extends into the upcoming weekend.

Temperatures are forecast to reach 100 degrees on both Thursday and Friday. While readings in Central Park could come in just below that mark, if temperatures reach 100 degrees on either day, it would be the first occurrence since 2012. Consecutive 100-degree days have not been recorded since 2011.

Poor air quality will remain a concern as the stagnant hot air mass lingers. Air quality alerts are expected to continue over the next several days, with the most intense phase of the heat wave arriving Thursday and Friday.

The Fourth of July will remain hot, and temperatures around 90 degrees are expected on Sunday before a return to more seasonable levels early next week. Humidity, however, will persist.

In addition to the heat, there will be periodic thunderstorm chances. A few isolated storms could develop Wednesday evening, bringing gusty winds, lightning, and brief heavy downpours. After a break on Thursday, the threat of scattered gusty thunderstorms returns Friday afternoon. While storms are not expected to be widespread, some communities could see strong cells move through.

The Fourth of July forecast calls for temperatures in the mid-90s with a 40 percent chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Storms could help cool temperatures into the 80s during the evening, though high humidity will keep conditions uncomfortable. We are hopeful thunderstorms will avoid major fireworks displays, but residents and travelers should remain alert for the possibility of gusty, drenching storms.

Even overnight temperatures will provide little relief. Heat index values are expected to remain just below 90 degrees through the night and climb back above 100 degrees on Thursday, with interior New Jersey again reaching 110 to 115 degrees. Thursday night into Friday morning will remain exceptionally warm and humid before another round of intense heat on Friday. Heat index values on Independence Day are also forecast to remain above 100 degrees.

Residents are urged to take precautions, including drinking plenty of fluids, limiting time in the midday sun, and watching for signs of heat exhaustion or cramping. He also recommends checking on neighbors and pets during the prolonged stretch of dangerous heat.