Poor Air Quality In Basking Ridge, Heat Alert Issues: Find Cooling Centers

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — A poor air quality alert and a heat advisory has been issued for Basking Ridge ahead of a very hot Thursday.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has issued a Code Orange Air Quality Action Day for Ground Level Ozone from 11 a.m. through 11 p.m. on Thursday.

This means the air quality has the potential to reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups including the very young, the elderly, and persons with respiratory diseases such as asthma.

Those among the sensitive groups should avoid strenuous activities during the afternoon and the early evening hours.

Additionally, a heat advisory remains in effect for Basking Ridge from 11 a.m. Thursday through 8 p.m. Friday. Heat index levels are expected to hit between 100 and 104 degrees.

The highest temperatures are expected to happen on Thursday. Low temperatures in the mid 70s Thursday night will not provide much relief from the heat, according to the National Weather Service.

Tips for dealing with the scorching weather:

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Stay in an air-conditioned room
• Stay out of the sun
• Check up on relatives and neighbors
• Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances
• Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside
• When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening
• Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
• Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible
• To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.
• Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.

Somerset County offers several cooling centers throughout the county. Below is a list or residents can call 211 or visit soconj.gov/coolingcenters:

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