Dangerously hot weather blankets the state with temperatures reaching well into the 90s and humidity pushing the heat index to as high as 109 degrees. Most of the state is under an excessive heat warning, according to the National Weather Service. Forecasters say that, on average, heat is the deadliest weather hazard so staying cool is a must.
But if you are looking for relief at the Shore, you should check for swimming advisories before you go. The state Department of Environmental Protection has been periodically banning swimming and issuing advisories at various beaches due to high levels of fecal bacteria. The DEP says high levels of bacteria are most often caused by stormwater runoff after heavy rain. Contact with contaminated water can cause nausea, vomiting and flu-like symptoms.
The latest closure was at Stockton Avenue in Long Beach Township. Advisories were issued and then lifted at four other beaches in Monmouth and Ocean counties this week.
