Heat Advisory remains in effect as late-summer heat grips Philly

The NWS recommends that people stay indoors and check on older relatives and neighbors.

Two kids walk under an umbrella

Two pedestrians use an umbrella for sun protection in Philadelphia’s Hunting Park neighborhood on July 26, 2023. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)

What you need to know

A Heat Advisory remains in effect for the Delaware Valley, with heat index values expected in the triple digits on Thursday.

The advisory is in effect through 8 p.m. for Northern Delaware, parts of Southeastern Pennsylvania, and parts of southwestern and central New Jersey.

Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 96 degrees, with a chance of some pop-up storms late in the day.

Meteorologist Michael Silva said heat indices, or “feels like temperatures,” are predicted to reach 102 degrees during the advisory.

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“This is pretty similar to a heat wave that we would get in the middle of the summer,” Silva said. “These temperatures are generally in the middle, upper nineties. And when you factor that with the humidity, it becomes dangerous.”

Silva recommends people stay in air-conditioned rooms, stay out of the sun, and check on relatives and neighbors.

“Stay hydrated with plenty of cold water, and do not ever leave a child or a pet in a locked car,” Silva said. “That is about as dangerous as it gets.”

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Early dismissals are in effect this week for 86 Philly schools that lack adequate air conditioning.

Other school districts affected by the sweltering temperatures include those in Upper Darby, William Penn, and Camden.

Residents who see someone experiencing symptoms of heatstroke, like rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, are urged to call 911.

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