TRENTON, New Jersey—New Jersey health officials reported multiple suspected heat-related deaths over the U.S. Independence Day holiday period after an extended spell of extreme temperatures gripped the state, as authorities urged residents to remain vigilant even as cooler conditions and thunderstorms moved into the region.
State officials said at least 19 deaths were initially believed to be linked to the heat wave, with the number later rising as additional cases were reviewed. By Monday, several media outlets, citing the New Jersey Department of Health, reported the suspected toll had reached at least 25, although investigations into the causes of death remained ongoing. Officials stressed that the fatalities were still considered suspected heat-related deaths pending further review.
New Jersey Health Commissioner Dr. Raynard Washington said the state began identifying suspected heat-related fatalities as early as Thursday, with most occurring in central and northern parts of the state. He said many victims were found inside homes without air conditioning, while others were discovered outdoors or in parked vehicles.
Governor Mikie Sherrill described the episode as one of the state's most severe periods of extreme heat in more than a decade, as temperatures climbed into the triple digits in some locations and heat index values rose substantially higher because of humidity. Weather officials attributed the conditions to a persistent high-pressure system, commonly known as a heat dome, that affected much of the central and eastern United States through the holiday weekend.
The National Weather Service has repeatedly warned that extreme heat is the leading weather-related cause of death in the United States and urged people to remain hydrated, seek air-conditioned spaces, limit strenuous outdoor activity and check on elderly neighbors, young children and others at heightened risk.
While temperatures eased across parts of the Northeast late in the holiday weekend, the arrival of powerful thunderstorms created new hazards. High winds downed trees and power lines, leaving hundreds of thousands of customers without electricity across several states, including New Jersey, and raising concerns for residents who had relied on air conditioning during the heat wave. Forecasters also warned of localized flash flooding.
State health authorities said they would continue reviewing suspected cases and update casualty figures as investigations are completed. Officials also urged residents to remain alert for lingering heat risks and to follow public health guidance during periods of extreme weather.
