Monmouth Beaches Offer Cool Escape From Inland Heat

MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ - If you can't take the inland heat forecast for today, there is a solution. Head to the beach.

The National Weather Service is calling for partly sunny skies, with a slight chance of late afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Highs today will be in the mid 80s. Winds will be from the south at 5 to 10 miles per hour, increasing to 10 to 15 mph.. The lightning threat is low, which means there is there is little chance of thunderstorms.

Inland, things will be different. The heat index will reach around 100 degrees, with temperatures in the low 90s and dew points in the lower to mid 70s. The NWS has issued a heat advisory for the mainland from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The rip current risk for today is low. But rips can always occur anytime, any place, especially near jetties, inlets, groins and other structures. Always check with your local beach patrol and never, ever swim alone or at night. The NWS advises you to always bring a flotation device with you in the water.

Waves today will only be around 2 feet, with southerly swells of 2 feet. The ocean water temperature is 77 degrees, although that can vary depending upon what beach you pick.

SubscribeThe ultraviolet index today is a 9, which the NWS considers very high. So don't forget the sunscreen.

Low tide at Belmar arrived at 10:57 a.m. High tide will roll in at 5:17 p.m., followed by another low tide at 11:55 p.m.

Have a nice day and be careful out there!

Photo: Patricia A. Miller