Tuesday could be the hottest day of the year so far in North Jersey

If you thought the summer heat couldn't get any worse, you may unfortunately have been wrong.

Heat index values could soar up to 104 degrees Tuesday, making it potentially the hottest day of the year so far, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Joe DeSilva.

A heat advisory is in effect until 10 p.m. Wednesday as high temperatures are expected to reach between 95 and 100 degrees.

"The day will start off dry with no precipitation expected in the morning and early afternoon," DeSilva said. However, there is a chance of thunderstorms in the early evening, particularly in the northern parts of the region.

An excessive heat warning has been issued for all of North Jersey, with the exception of Essex County, which remains under a heat advisory.

Residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and check on vulnerable populations, including the elderly and young children.

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When will the heat wave in NJ end?

The latest heat wave started Sunday and is expected to continue Wednesday. There's finally some relief in sight Thursday though, with a stretch of high temperatures "only" in the mid-80s.