We are sharing this Important Message from Hunterdon County
In addition to very hot temperatures, Hunterdon County residents should prepare for hazy skies, and deteriorating air quality today as smoke from Canadian wildfires moves into the region. The combination of extreme heat and fine particulate smoke may increase health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. Forecasters expect the smoke to become more noticeable today and continue into Thursday. For those who remember, visible conditions later today and Thursdays may mimic the conditions of June 2023 when measurable Canadian wildfire smoke moved into the region.
What to Expect Today
Hazy skies and the smell of smoke are possible throughout the day.
High temperatures are expected to approach 103°F, with heat index values potentially exceeding 105°F.
Air quality may deteriorate as wildfire smoke reaches ground level, especially this afternoon and evening, and for Thursday.
Isolated afternoon and evening thunderstorms may develop, with the potential for damaging wind gusts.
Health & Safety Recommendations
Residents are encouraged to take the following precautions:
Limit prolonged outdoor activity, especially strenuous exercise.
Sensitive groups—including children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with asthma, COPD, heart disease, or other respiratory illnesses—should remain indoors as much as possible if smoke is present.
Keep windows and doors closed and run air conditioning on the recirculate setting if available.
If extended outdoor activity is unavoidable in smoky conditions, wear a well-fitting N95 or KN95 respirator.
Stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the heat, and check on neighbors, family members, and others who may be at increased risk.
Stay Informed
Air quality conditions may change rapidly as smoke concentrations shift with the wind. Residents should continue to monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) throughout the day and follow any advisories issued by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and local emergency management officials.
Hunterdon County officials continue to monitor weather and air quality conditions and will provide additional updates as necessary.
