Heat Will Continue Through Today, But Will Be Slightly Less Intense

Temperatures are expected to start falling Thursday, according to the National Weather Service, but the weather will remain hot throughout the area during the day.

"The heat should ease Thursday as an onshore flow increases and the hot ridge of high pressure shifts farther to the southwest," a National Weather Service report said.

There is a chance for isolated thunderstorms in the evening.

The National Weather Service also issued a red flag warning Wednesday, which means an increase in the likelihood of wildfires throughout the area. Even though there has not been much wind throughout the area, fine fuels were extremely dry, according to the National Weather Service, and that in combination with high humidity levels created an environment of "explosive fire growth potential."

An air quality advisory will remain in effect until 10 p.m. Thursday.

The National Weather Service said the excessive heat is expected to ease Friday, but humidity levels will remain high until a cold front moves through the area around Saturday.

The high humidity levels are predicted to cause heat index levels up to 102 degrees again around 11 a.m. Thursday. The record high for Chatham on July 8 is 98 degrees, and that mark was set in 1986. (Here are some tips on how to stay cool in the heat.)

New Jersey Transit trains are expected to run normally throughout the day.