Philadelphia

Philly's Hottest Ever Day Happened 100 Years Ago, the High Temp Hit 106

The mercury in Philadelphia topped out at 106 degrees on Aug. 7, 1918. That record heat still stands 100 years later.

What to Know

  • The hottest day in Philadelphia's history happened on Aug. 7, 1918.
  • The high temp topped out a scorching 106 degrees 100 years ago.
  • "This happened before air conditioning," Glenn "Hurricane" Schwartz said. "Imagine dealing with that kind of heat without AC!"

If you think Tuesday's high in the low 90s is rough you should be glad you weren't around 100 years ago.

Tuesday marks the 100th anniversary of Philadelphia's hottest day ever recorded with temperatures topping out at 106 degrees on Aug. 7, 1918!

"That means we’re only going to miss our high temperature record today by a mere 13 to 15 degrees!" NBC10 First Alert Weather meteorologist Glenn "Hurricane" Schwartz said.

The heat has arrived and has definitely made its presence known. It is important to make sure you follow the proper precautions to stay safe during this first heat wave of the summer. NBC10’s Rosemary Connors speaks with Monica Cryan from the American Red Cross for some lifesaving tips.

The 106-degree heater wasn't a one day event. The day before the record was set, temperatures reached a scorching 103 degrees.

"This happened before air conditioning," Glenn said. "Imagine dealing with that kind of heat without AC!"

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If you were wondering, the second hottest day ever recorded in Philadelphia was just seven years ago when the high temperature topped out at 104 on July 22.

If you’re outdoors Tuesday feeling overwhelmed by the heat, think to yourself that it could be much worse and get inside to cool off.

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