New Jersey's week-long heat wave is coming to an end as a cold front moves through the state with strong thunderstorms in some areas.

10:05 p.m. - A Severe Thunderstorm Warnings in effect for parts of Burlington, Gloucester, Ocean and Atlantic Counties for storms producing winds up to 60 mph, large hail and frequent cloud-to-ground lightning.

 

It's one more day of extreme heat and humidity as temperatures head for the 90s and combine with the high humidity create a heat index of 99-104 degrees for most of the state. The highest temperatures will hit during the afternoon into the early evening.

Those who work outdoors should take extra precautions with frequent breaks in air conditioned areas. It is recommended that strenuous activity be done in the early morning or evening to avoid the full impact of the sun. Drink plenty of water even if you don't feel thirsty, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and never leave children, elderly or pets in the car even with the windows down.

Relief Comes Tonight

Seaside Heights
Seaside Heights (Joe Palmer, Townsquare Media NJ)
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A cold front, however, will move across New Jersey tonight and early Sunday that could kick off some strong thunderstorms and then stall to our south. The storms will likely form after 2 p.m. and could contain heavy rain and hail.

The humidity will begin to come down on Sunday with sunshine and temperatures in the 80s with the threat of thunderstorms in the morning.

Text WEATHER to 89000 and get alerts about storm warnings and watches sent to your phone.

There is also a high risk of rip currents today creating a rough surf and life threatening danger for swimmers who caught in the water that draws back quickly from the beach.

Rip currents occur most often at low spots or breaks in the sandbar and in the vicinity of structures such as.jetties and piers. Swimmers today are advised to heed the advice of lifeguards and the beach patrol. pay attention to flags and posted signs.

If caught in a rip current, remember the following:

  • Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
  • Never fight against the current.
  • Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle-away from the current-toward shore.
  • If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim toward shore.
  • If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.
  • Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist near these structures.

Rip Current Awareness Week arrives alongside hurricane season, and it is important to remember that storms increase the risk of dangerous surf conditions. Even storms that don't reach shore can cause strong rip currents along the beach posing dangers for swimmers.

Rip current
How rip currents form (NOAA)
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If you see someone in trouble, get help from a lifeguard. If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 911. If possible, throw the victim something that floats, such as a life-jacket, cooler or inflatable ball and give instructions on how to escape the current.

Officials say those trying to help need to remember that many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.


 


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