Morris County Urges Residents to Take Precautions During Extreme Heat

Published on July 15, 2026

Dangerous Heat Expected Today; Cooling Center Locations Available Online

The Morris County Office of Emergency Management is advising residents to take precautions as dangerously hot and humid conditions are expected today, with heat index values ranging from 100 to 109 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.

The hottest conditions of the week are forecast for today, with air temperatures in the upper 90s to near 100 degrees. Hot and humid weather is expected to continue through Friday, July 17.

Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day and spend time in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible. Check on older adults, neighbors and others who may be especially vulnerable to extreme heat, and never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle.

Residents seeking relief from the heat can find cooling center locations by visiting the Morris County Office of Emergency Management Cooling Centers webpage or the statewide NJ 211 directory (nj211.org/nj-cooling-centers), where locations and hours are updated by county and local emergency management agencies.

Anyone having difficulty coping with the heat may also contact their municipal Office of Emergency Management or police department to locate a cooling shelter in their community or call NJ 211 for assistance. To reach NJ 211, simply dial 2-1-1 or toll-free at 1-877-652-1148.

If someone is experiencing a heat-related emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately. 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; confusion; or loss of consciousness.

Residents who have not already done so are encouraged to register with Smart 911, a free emergency call service available to Morris County residents that provides first responders with important information about individuals and their household members during an emergency.

The National Weather Service also forecasts a chance of isolated severe thunderstorms between 4 p.m. and 11 p.m. today. Storms could produce damaging wind gusts, small hail, brief heavy rainfall and frequent cloud-to-ground lightning, with localized tree damage, power outages and road closures possible.

Smoke from wildfires in Canada is also expected to move into the region beginning tonight and may linger through Friday or Saturday. Individuals with asthma, COPD, heart disease or other respiratory conditions should monitor local air quality conditions and consider limiting prolonged outdoor activity if air quality worsens.

The Morris County Office of Emergency Management will continue to monitor weather conditions and coordinate with municipal, county and state partners as needed. Residents are encouraged to monitor trusted weather sources throughout the day and ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and emergency information.

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