Northeast US Heat Wave Swamps Boston and New Jersey in Early July

Boston recorded a temperature of 100°F on July 2, 2026 – the hottest day of the year and only the fourth occasion since 1944 that the city has reached 100°F on consecutive days. An extreme‑heat advisory, in effect through Saturday, warned of high humidity, limited overnight cooling and heat‑index values above 105°F. Forecasters expected scattered storms on Saturday to bring relief, with cooler nights and a chance of rain early the following week.

In nearby New Jersey, temperatures also surged, with a car dashboard reading 105°F on July 2 and another 100°F reading on July 3. The extreme heat coincided with heavy traffic on the Garden State Parkway and local roads as motorists headed to Fourth of July celebrations and beaches. Residents sought respite in pools and private swim venues, reflecting how the heat amplified congestion and discomfort across the region.