Dangerous heat is settling over Rockaway and the rest of Morris County this week, and the Morris County Office of Emergency Management is urging residents to take precautions. In an advisory issued July 15, the agency warned that heat index values could climb to between 100 and 109 degrees, with air temperatures in the upper 90s to near 100. The hot and humid conditions are expected to continue through Friday, July 17, according to the National Weather Service.
Officials are asking residents to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, and spend time in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible. They also urged people to check on older adults and neighbors who are especially vulnerable to extreme heat, and to never leave children or pets alone in a parked vehicle.
Residents who need relief can find cooling center locations and hours through the Morris County Office of Emergency Management Cooling Centers webpage or the statewide NJ 211 directory. NJ 211 can also be reached by dialing 2-1-1 or 1-877-652-1148.
Signs of heat-related illness include a body temperature of 103 degrees or higher; hot, red, dry or damp skin; a rapid, strong pulse; headache; dizziness; nausea; or confusion. Anyone experiencing a heat emergency should call 9-1-1 right away.
The county also noted that smoke from wildfires in Canada could move into the region and linger into the weekend. Residents with asthma, COPD or heart conditions should monitor local air quality and limit time outdoors if conditions worsen.
