NJ power outages leave thousands dark amid heat and storms
Thousands of New Jersey homes and businesses lost electricity on Friday, July 3, 2026, as an extreme heat wave collided with severe thunderstorm threats. NJ.com's live outage tracker showed more than 8,700 customers without power by 5 p.m. Here's what residents need to know about restoration, safety, and what to expect next.
The outages arrived on the second straight day of punishing heat, with a dome of high pressure pushing air temperatures into the upper 90s and low 100s. High humidity pushed heat index values toward 110 degrees or higher, intensifying health risks for anyone without air conditioning or working fans.
Key Takeaways
- NJ.com's Power Outage Tracker reported more than 8,700 customers without power statewide as of 5 p.m. Friday.
- The extreme heat wave, driven by a heat dome, is expected to last about a week and peak through Saturday, July 4.
- Severe thunderstorms with damaging winds and frequent lightning threatened northern and central New Jersey Friday afternoon and evening.
- Multiple South Jersey towns canceled or postponed July Fourth parades, fireworks, and other outdoor events due to heat exceeding 100 degrees.
- Residents should report outages to their utility and stay clear of downed power lines while crews work to restore service.
How many New Jersey customers are without power?
As of 5 p.m. Friday, NJ.com's Power Outage Tracker showed more than 8,700 customers in the dark across the state. The tool monitors reports from New Jersey's four major utility companies and refreshes regularly throughout the day.
Outage totals can shift quickly as isolated thunderstorms roll through. Utility crews typically cannot begin full restoration until storm damage is assessed and downed lines are secured.
What is causing outages during this heat wave?
New Jersey State Climatologist David Robinson told the Asbury Park Press that a dangerous heat dome is trapping hot, humid air over the region. Temperatures inland are approaching 100 degrees, with little relief from wind, clouds, or rain.
On top of the heat, forecasters warned that isolated thunderstorms Friday afternoon and evening could pack damaging wind gusts and frequent lightning. That combination strains the power grid and increases the risk of fallen trees and wires.
How long will the heat wave last?
Robinson said the heat is likely to stick around for about a week and is "not going to be three days and done." The wave was predicted to begin Wednesday, peak Thursday and Friday, and continue through Saturday, the Independence Day holiday.
The National Weather Service forecast highs near 103 degrees Thursday, 104 degrees Friday, and 99 degrees Saturday, with modest relief arriving Sunday when highs near 94 degrees are expected. Robinson noted some cooling may reach the beaches, but inland areas could remain oppressive.
How is extreme heat affecting July Fourth plans?
With temperatures forecast to exceed 100 degrees through Independence Day, South Jersey communities are reshuffling holiday schedules. The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Haddon Township canceled its July Fourth parade, Haddonfield postponed its block party and drone show, and Paulsboro canceled its parade.
Bordentown Township postponed fireworks to August 4, while Oaklyn moved its parade start time to 9 a.m. to beat the worst heat. For households planning to stream fireworks or holiday broadcasts, power and internet outages could disrupt viewing — making a live tracker essential. Follow more Streaming & TV Alerts for updates on how weather is affecting live events and broadcasts.
What should you do if you lose power?
Report outages directly to your utility company rather than relying on social media alone. Stay away from downed power lines and assume they are energized. If you lose cooling, seek air-conditioned public spaces and check on elderly neighbors and young children.
Keep phones charged when possible and avoid opening refrigerators unnecessarily. As crews work through storm damage, restoration timelines will vary by county and severity of impact.