Princeton Opens Cooling Centers Ahead Of Dangerous July 4 Weekend Heat

PRINCETON, NJ — An Extreme Heat Warning issued by the National Weather Service will remain in effect through the Fourth of July weekend, with Princeton officials opening cooling centers as dangerously high temperatures grip the region.

The warning is in effect from noon Wednesday through 8 p.m. Saturday for portions of northern Delaware, central and southern New Jersey, and southeastern Pennsylvania, according to the National Weather Service. Heat index values are expected to reach between 100 and 110 degrees each day, with the hottest conditions forecast for Thursday and Friday. Overnight lows in the mid-70s to low 80s are not expected to offer relief.

Officials are urging residents to stay cool, stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, and check on older adults, young children, and neighbors who may need assistance.

Three cooling centers are available for residents seeking relief from the heat:

• Princeton Police Department lobby — open 24/7.

• Monument Hall — Wednesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Princeton Public Library — Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Closed July 4.

Residents are urged never to leave children or pets in a vehicle, even for a few minutes, as car interiors can reach lethal temperatures within minutes. Anyone who sees signs of heat stroke — including confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, or hot, red skin — should call 911 immediately.

The National Weather Service also recommended that outdoor workers take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas and limit strenuous activity to early morning or evening hours. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool, shaded location.

Residents without air conditioning or shelter from the heat can call 211 or visit their county or state health department website for assistance.

Here's the forecast for the next few days:

• Thursday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 102. Heat index values as high as 109. West wind 5 to 10 mph.

• Thursday Night: Clear, with a low around 79. West wind around 5 mph.

• Friday: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Sunny and hot, with a high near 102. West wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

• Friday Night: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 2 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 76. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

• Independence Day: A chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent.

• Saturday Night: A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent.

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