Excessive Heat Warning issued as temps rise this weekend

PHILADELPHIA (WTXF) - Brace yourselves for some serious heat in the Philadelphia area Friday, and through the weekend and into the beginning of next week! An excessive heat watch is in effect for the weekend as the heat index nears 100 degrees.

The excessive heat watch however, is not so much for Friday as it is Saturday when the heat index is expected to reach 100 degrees across most of the area.

In conjunction with the National Weather Service's excessive heat warning for our area, Philadelphia Health Commissioner Thomas Farley, MD, MPH, has issued a heat warning in Philadelphia for July 23 at 11:00 a.m. through July 25 at 6:00 p.m.

With the warning comes the activation of the City's special summer heat programs, including home visits by special field teams, the "Heatline", enhanced daytime outreach for the homeless, and the City's effort to encourage the public to look in on older friends, relatives, and neighbors.

Health Commissioner Farley said, "we strongly urge the public to visit older friends, relatives and neighbors to ensure that air conditioners or fans are working and homes are adequately ventilated. In a heat wave, the majority of the victims are older people and those with pre-existing medical conditions."

Those in need can call the "Heatline" (215-765-9040) from 11:00 a.m. to midnight on Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to midnight on Sunday, and 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday.

Friday will the start of the heat wave with a high of 94, but temps are only expected to go up from there.

Saturday could turn out to be the hottest day of the year for us so far with a high of 98, and some serious humidity to go with it.

Sunday, and Monday aren't exactly cool down days, with a high of 97 on both days.

FRIDAY: Mostly Sunny, Hot & Humid. High: 94.

SATURDAY: Hazy Sunshine Hot & Humid. High: 98.

SUNDAY: Partly Sunny, Hot & Humid. High: 97.

MONDAY: Hot & Humid. High: 97.

TUESDAY: Heat Wave Continues. High: 96.