From Sweltering Heat to Afternoon T-Storms

How hot is it? Hot enough to close Town Hall.

Barnegat's municipal offices shut down today at 3:30 p.m. because of excessive heat in the building, as temperatures outdoors climbed to the triple digits and the National Weather Service's heat index rose to 119.

Some cooling rain may be on the way, but it could come in the form of powerful thunderstorms, according to the NWS. Storms with downpours and high winds are currently skirting southern Ocean County, and rumbles of thunder are audible in Barnegat.

Some Ocean County communities have seen power outages and brownouts; keep track of local outages with Jersey Central Power and Light's outage map.

Whatever tonight's weather brings, temperatures are expected to shoot back up Saturday. The excessive heat warning issued Thursday remains in effect until 8 p.m. tomorrow. Highs will likely hit the low 90s.

There's a chance of thunderstorms through the weekend, but in case no rain arrives to bring down temperatures, the township is keeping the Recreation Center at 900 West Bay Avenue open as a cooling center Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Those without access to transportation can call the Barnegat Township Police Department at 609-698-5000 for a pickup.