TRENTON, NEW JERSEY.– The heat wave affecting New Jersey has left at least 25 people dead, according to state authorities, who are investigating whether the deaths are directly related to the extreme temperatures recorded over the last few days.
The New Jersey Department of Health indicated that the deaths began to be recorded last Thursday and that most of the victims were found in homes without air conditioning, on public roads, or inside parked vehicles. Investigations are ongoing to officially determine the cause of each death.
Heat wave
Authorities warned that the death toll could rise as medical assessments conclude. Likewise, they reiterated that the heat wave poses a risk to people of all ages, although older adults, people with chronic illnesses, and those who lack cooling systems continue to be the most vulnerable groups.
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Heat wave risk
Governor Mikie Sherrill described the episode as the most intense heat period recorded in the state in over a decade. Throughout the week, several locations exceeded 38 degrees Celsius (100 °F), and the heat index reached even higher values due to the high humidity.
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Although the National Weather Service forecasts a gradual drop in temperatures over the coming days, authorities continue to urge the public to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and pay special attention to family members, neighbors, and vulnerable individuals in the face of the heat wave.
