With Fourth of July arriving, temperatures will be skyrocketing in portions of the eastern United States. The National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center believes there’s a moderate chance of dangerous, excessive heat from Florida north to New Jersey in the coming days. After a brief break today for those in the Mid Atlantic, atmospheric steering currents will help draw hot and humid air north in the coming days.
The worst of the heat will exist between July 4 and July 8, with the greatest threat of hazardous temperatures over eastern Virginia, eastern and central North Carolina, much of South Carolina, southern Georgia, and northern Florida. In this area, the combination of high air temperatures and high humidities will create conditions hazardous not only to humans, but animals too. Drivers are urged to make sure that children and pets are removed from cars when they’re done driving, even in areas where excessive heat isn’t expected.
During this period, temperatures in the mid 90s and dew point readings in the lower 70’s will produce heat index values between 100 and 105 degrees in some areas around Independence Day. These high readings will have a serious negative impact on those who work outdoors, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions that make them even more vulnerable to high heat and humidity.
In this hot weather, the National Weather Service may issue heat advisories such as an Excessive Heat Warning. An Excessive Heat Warning means that a prolonged period of very hot and humid conditions is expected. People in the watch area should drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids, stay out of the sunlight, and be in an air-conditioned location if possible. People should also check-in on elderly relatives and neighbors in the Warning area.
