After going through the last several days of extreme heat, Manville is heading into several more days of dangerous heat as temperatures climb into the 90s plus and humidity pushes the heat index even higher. According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, extreme heat events are becoming more frequent across the state, with prolonged periods of high temperatures posing serious risks to health and safety.

The National Weather Service defines a heat wave as three or more days of temperatures at or above 90°F, and New Jersey forecasters warn that heat index values can reach hazardous levels when humidity is high. Heat advisories and warnings are issued when the heat index approaches 95° to 105°F, conditions that can quickly lead to heat related illness if precautions aren't taken.

Staying Safe During Extreme Heat

State health and climate experts emphasize several key steps residents should take during excessive heat:

• Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty.
• Limit outdoor activity, especially during peak afternoon hours.
• Wear lightweight, loose fitting clothing to help your body stay cool.
• Never leave children, pets, or vulnerable adults in a parked car, even for a moment.
• Check on neighbors, especially seniors or those without air conditioning.
• Know the signs of heat illness, including dizziness, headache, nausea, confusion, or rapid heartbeat. Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention.

Residents should also pay attention to official heat alerts. A Heat Advisory means conditions are expected to be dangerous and precautions should be taken. An Excessive Heat Warning indicates life threatening conditions requiring immediate action to stay cool and safe.

Staying Safe During Extreme Heat

For anyone who needs a place to escape the heat, the Manville Public Library is open as a cooling center during regular hours. Cooling centers are recommended as safe indoor locations for residents who do not have access to air conditioning at home.

The library offers comfortable seating, air conditioning, water fountains, and access to books, computers, and Wi-Fi, making it a safe and welcoming place to cool down.

What to do over the Next Few Days

With temperatures expected to remain high:

• Residents should monitor updates from the National Weather Service and our local Office of Emergency Management (OEM). ManvilleToday also provides timely weather-related alerts through our app and on our website.
• Consider rescheduling or moving indoors any outside events, especially during peak hours.
• Those working outside should take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors and make sure to drink plenty of water even if not thirsty.
• Pet owners should avoid walking their pets on hot pavement. Sidewalks and roads can reach temperatures up to 180 degrees. Veterinarians recommend placing the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 to 7 seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your pet's paws.
• Anyone without reliable cooling at home is encouraged to use public cooling centers. Somerset County has a list of cooling centers across the county. Find one here.

Extreme heat can affect anyone, but children, older adults, people with chronic health conditions, and pets are especially vulnerable. State officials stress that awareness and early action are key to preventing heat related emergencies.

Be safe and stay cool Manville.