The Burlington County Commissioners, along with the Health Department and Office of Emergency Management, are urging residents to take precautions during an anticipated heat wave. The National Weather Service has issued a Code Orange air quality alert and an Extreme Heat Warning for Burlington County and the South Jersey region due to expected temperatures reaching above the mid-90s, potentially nearing 100 degrees. The heat index could rise between 100 and 110 degrees over the next three days.
Residents are advised to drink plenty of fluids, remain in air-conditioned environments when possible, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities. Burlington County Commissioner Dr. Director Felicia Hopson emphasized the importance of these precautions: “Severe heat and humidity is not something to take lightly and we’re encouraging residents to take precautions, reduce outdoor activities and to check on any elderly relatives or neighbors who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.”
For those without air-conditioning at home, Dr. Hopson suggested visiting Burlington County branch libraries or Moorestown Mall for relief from the heat. Seven branches of the Burlington County Library System have been designated as cooling centers:
– Burlington County Library Main Branch in Westampton
– Bordentown Branch Library
– Cinnaminson Branch Library
– Evesham Branch Library
– Maple Shade Branch Library
– Pemberton Community Library
– Pinelands Branch Library
Additionally, Riverton Branch Library is open until 8:30 PM. The Board of Social Services offices in Westampton also serve as a daytime cooling center.
The Office of Emergency Management remains in contact with first responders and utility companies should power outages occur. For elderly residents needing electric fans, the Department of Human Services Office on Aging has limited supplies available at 609-265-5069.
