Though it is still questionable whether we'll have an official heat wave, an Excessive Heat Warning remains in effect for most of the area extending through 9 p.m. Thursday.
We already hit a record-high 97 degrees in Philadelphia as of 6 p.m. Wednesday And records were broken in Reading and Mount Pocono while the record was tied in Allentown.
Expect more records to be shattered Thursday, although there is a slight risk of severe thunderstorms for parts of the area Thursday evening.
And before the extreme heat ends, Philadelphia could hit 100 degrees -- making it the earliest time in the season to hit 100 on record.
Plenty of schools are trying to keep a step ahead of the heat by calling for early dismissals Wednesday and Thursday including Philly public and parochial schools.
Humidity will increase as well, pushing the heat index to well over 100. The dry ground from recent lack of rain will help the area get hotter than it would if the ground was moist.
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There’s a better chance for thunderstorms on Friday. The weekend won’t be nearly as hot, but there will be higher chances for showers.
Everyone should plan on keeping cool by taking it easy when outside and finding shade whenever possible or just stay inside in the air conditioning.
The City of Philadelphia says the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging's "Heatline" (215.765.9040) will be activated at noon. The hotline, which connects the elderly in need to health professionals during heat events, will stay active through midnight Thursday. It will open again between 8:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Thursday.
It also is a good idea for residents to keep an eye on older neighbors and loved ones during extreme heat.
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