TRENTON, New Jersey — New Jersey is dealing with two serious weather threats at the same time right now — and neither one is letting up anytime soon.
Heavy rain and thunderstorms are moving through the state Wednesday, dropping more than an inch of rain per hour in some spots. Flash flood warnings are already active in several counties, and the ground is still soaked from Monday’s intense storms.
The National Weather Service warns that urban areas and places with poor drainage face the highest flooding risk.
Dangerous Heat Moves In Thursday
Just as the storms ease, the heat arrives.
A heat advisory takes effect at 10 a.m. Thursday and runs through 8 p.m. Friday for most of New Jersey. The only exception is the far southern counties.
During this period, the heat index — what it actually feels like outside — is expected to reach 100 to 105 degrees. Air temperatures will climb into the upper 80s to low 90s, with dew points in the mid-70s making the humidity nearly unbearable.
It Does Not End Friday
Saturday through Monday, heat index readings are expected to stay in the mid- to upper 90s across much of the state.
Scattered thunderstorms will remain possible through the weekend. Any storm that develops could quickly dump heavy rain and trigger brief flash flooding.
At the Jersey Shore, dangerous rip currents are already a moderate risk through Thursday — and that risk could rise to high at some beaches Thursday evening.
What Residents Need to Do Right Now
Weather officials are urging New Jersey residents to take this stretch seriously.
Drink water consistently throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid outdoor activity during the hottest hours — typically between noon and 5 p.m. Check on elderly neighbors and relatives who may not have air conditioning.
And never leave a child or pet inside a parked vehicle. Even with windows cracked, temperatures inside a car can become deadly within minutes.
Are you dealing with flooding or extreme heat in your area? Tell us what conditions look like where you are in the comments below.