Heat advisories issued through Thursday in parts of southeastern PA, NJ

The heat is on, just ahead of the official calendar start of summer.

The National Weather Service issued heat advisories in effect today at 11 a.m. through Thursday at 8 p.m. in Delaware, eastern Montgomery and lower Bucks counties in Pennsylvania, and Camden, Gloucester, Mercer and northwestern Burlington counties in New Jersey.

“Heat index values up to 99 expected,” the NWS stated.

“Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors,” the NWS suggested in its advisory. “Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”

The NWS forecast said afternoon highs in the mid-80s to lower 90s combined with high humidity will push the heat index over 95 degrees in some places.

In Berks County, the NWS is forecasting a 20% 80% chance of thunderstorms and patchy fog Wednesday with a high of 85 and low of 72.

Bucks is looking at a high near 85, according to the NWS, and an 80% chance of precipitation with a low around 72.

Chester County is forecast to have showers and thunderstorms before 4 p.m. with a high near 85 degrees and a low around 71.

In Delaware County, showers and thunderstorms are likely, the NWS says, with a chance of precipitation at 80% and a high near 87. A low of 73 is forecast.

Montgomery County is forecast to have a slight chance of storms and a high of 86 degrees and low of 71.

In New Jersey, Mercer County has a high forecast to hit 86, with a low of around 71. The chance of thunderstorms increases after 4 p.m.

The NWS forecasts it gets even hotter beginning Sunday, with highs forecast in the low 90s for the region and Monday’s highs hitting around 95 degrees.

The summer solstice officially arrives Friday evening, June 20.

Source: Berkshire mont