Excessive heat warning issued as temps soar to nearly 100 degrees

Summer is certainly going out with a bang this year!

After several days of fall-like weather, the heat is back for two days this week before dropping once again.

The climb began Tuesday as temperatures reached a high of 90 with sunny skies.

However, dangerous heat is expected on Wednesday as temperatures hit 96 degrees with a heat index as high as 105 degrees.

An "Excessive Heat Warning" has been issued from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. in several counties: Delaware County, Eastern Montgomery County, Lower Bucks County, Philadelphia County, Mercer County, Gloucester County, Northwestern Burlington County, Camden County.

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Extreme heat forces early dismissal for over 60 Philadelphia schools

More than 60 Philadelphia public schools with ‘inadequate cooling’ will close early on Tuesday and Wednesday due to forecasted extreme heat.

Meanwhile, a heat advisory will be in effect for even more counties in the area: Lancaster County, Lebanon County, Upper Bucks County, Western Montgomery County, Northampton County, Eastern Chester County, Western Chester County, Berks County, Lehigh County, Southeastern Burlington County, Ocean County, Somerset County, Hunterdon County, Warren County, New Castle County.

Heat related illnesses will increase significantly during the extreme heat and high humidity.

According to the National Weather Service, take these steps during extreme heat: 

  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Stay in an air-conditioned room,
  • Stay out of the sun,
  • Check up on relatives and neighbors.
  • Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles as car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.

Anyone overcome by heat should move to a cool and shaded location. In the case of an emergency, call 911.

Late thunderstorms will help break the heat as temperatures start to drop to the high 70s by Friday.