By: Richard L. Smith
My family and friends in Newark are set to experience a scorcher today. Temperatures are expected to soar back into summer-like levels, making it the hottest day of the week.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory, prompting Newark city officials to activate a Code Red Hot Weather Health Warning.
As temperatures are projected to climb into the upper 90s, with a heat index reaching as high as 103 degrees, Newark is preparing its cooling centers to help residents stay safe.
Recreation centers and pools across the city will have extended hours to offer relief from the oppressive heat.
Early this morning, partly cloudy skies accompanied temperatures at 74 degrees, but the mercury will rise steadily throughout the day.
There is a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m., which could bring some relief.
Tonight, NWS forecasters say the chance of showers and thunderstorms continues, mainly before 2 a.m., with temperatures expected to drop to around 67 degrees.
Residents are urged to take precautions against the extreme heat and make use of the city's resources to stay cool and safe.