If you’re planning to drive, work outside, or even take a walk through Wilmington today or tomorrow—stop and rethink your schedule. A dangerously hot air mass is cooking its way across Delaware, with the heat index expected to soar near 109°F, especially along the I‑95 corridor. This Extreme Heat Warning will remain in effect until 8 PM Wednesday, and it’s no exaggeration to say your health—and even your life—could be at risk.
What’s Causing This Dangerous Heat Surge?
Delaware is currently baking under a heat dome—a massive area of high pressure that traps hot air like a lid on a pot. This setup means intense sunshine, very high humidity, and little to no wind, creating a situation where the air feels even hotter than it actually is.
While actual temperatures will sit in the upper 90s, humidity will push the “feels-like” number to 108°F or higher. Combine that with heat-retaining asphalt on I‑95, heavy traffic, and the absence of shade, and you’ve got the perfect storm for rapid overheating.
Who Should Worry? (Hint: It’s Not Just the Elderly)
This heat is dangerous for everyone—but it’s especially hazardous for:
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Commuters stuck in traffic on I‑95 with limited airflow
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Outdoor workers: road crews, construction workers, landscapers, and delivery drivers
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Children, infants, and seniors
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People without access to air conditioning
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Pets left in vehicles or on pavement
Symptoms of heat illness can come on fast, including:
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Profuse sweating, or worse—no sweating at all
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Muscle cramps, nausea, dizziness
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Rapid pulse, confusion, and fainting
If someone suddenly stops sweating or becomes disoriented, it’s likely heat stroke—and that’s a 911 emergency.
What to Do Immediately to Stay Safe
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Reschedule errands, work, or outdoor plans for early morning or after 7 PM.
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Hydrate constantly—drink water every 15–20 minutes if you’re active.
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Check your vehicle before traveling—AC, fluids, and tire pressure matter more in extreme heat.
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NEVER leave a child, pet, or elderly person in a parked car—even for a minute.
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Wear light clothing, apply sunscreen, and use hats or umbrellas if you must be outside.
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Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas regularly if you work outdoors.
Why This Is a Real Emergency—Not Just “Summer Heat”
Unlike a typical hot day, this level of heat is classified by the National Weather Service as “extreme” because the combination of humidity and temperature is dangerously taxing on the human body.
Delaware’s infrastructure—especially older homes without central air—adds to the danger. Combine that with heavy traffic, little tree cover, and intense solar radiation on highways like I‑95, and even healthy adults can suffer from heat illness in minutes.
How Long Will It Last?
The warning remains in place through 8 PM Wednesday, with conditions expected to be most intense between noon and 6 PM each day. Overnight lows in the mid-70s won’t bring much relief, meaning your body won’t get a chance to cool down. Thursday may bring scattered storms and a slight break—but this heat will be back again later this week.
Bottom Line
This is not a drill. This is a heat emergency. Don’t underestimate what 109°F “feels-like” temperatures can do to your body—or your car. If you’re in Wilmington, protect yourself, your family, and your pets now. Check on vulnerable neighbors. Hydrate and stay cool. And above all, take this seriously.
