N.J. weather: Dangerous heat with 100+ high temps could shatter records. Air quality alerts issued.

UPDATE: Temps will feel like a scorching 110 degrees as ‘dangerous’ heat wave begins

An extreme heat warning is in effect for most of New Jersey through Wednesday, with potential record-setting temperatures expected around 100 degrees the next two days.

Temperatures will climb into the upper 90s to low 100s, creating life-threatening heat risks, particularly in urban areas and for vulnerable populations.

The forecast for Trenton calls for highs of 99 degrees on Monday and 103 degrees on Tuesday. New Brunswick has a similar forecast of 97 for Monday and 102 Tuesday.

In addition to extreme heat warnings and heat advisories, all 21 New Jersey counties will be under air quality alerts on Monday.

Heat indices will range between 100-110 degrees, making outdoor activities extremely hazardous.

The National Weather Service advises residents take precautions, including staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and checking on elderly neighbors and those without air conditioning.

“Heat tends to have cumulative effects on the body and we are currently forecasting four consecutive days of 95+ with through Tuesday likely to feature high temperatures around 100 degrees and heat index values pushing 105-110 degrees,” the weather service said.

The heat is expected to be most intense on Monday and Tuesday, with little overnight relief as temperatures are forecast to remain in the 70s and 80s.

By Wednesday, temperatures will begin to moderate, dropping into the mid-90s.

A shift in weather patterns is expected toward the end of the week with increasing chances of scattered thunderstorms and slightly cooler temperatures.

The heat wave is anticipated to break by Thursday, with temperatures returning closer to seasonal norms.

Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff.