Our first heat wave of the year is slated for this week, bringing intense and dangerous temperatures leading into the Fourth of July weekend. Temperatures are already ready slated to reach, if not surpass, 100 degrees on Thursday and Friday, and added humidity could push “feels like” temps i nto the 105-110 range. The heat index, which factors in humidity and is included on many weather forecasts, provides a sense of how hot it really feels — and what’s dangerous for prolonged exposure or strenuous activity. Extreme heat watches have already been issued for this week for much of New Jersey. Those watches are likely to expend in the coming days. A large dome of high pressure confined to the Gulf Coast this weekend will expand to cover a large swath of the country, from Texas and Florida north to the Great Lakes and Northeast by Wednesday. The “dome” of high pressure promotes stable air, lots of sunshine, and traps heat near the surface. The air will feel tropical, and that humidity will send the heat index into the triple digits. Thursday and Friday will probably be the most extreme days, with only slight improvements by Saturday, July 4. Make sure to stay hydrated throughout the week, dress in light, breathable clothing, and don’t spend a lot of time outside. If you must be outside, seek shade and keep your activity level to a minimum. ...read more read less