NWS ALERTS: A HEAT ADVISORY is in effect until 7 p.m. for heat indices around 100 degrees. An AIR QUALITY ALERT is also in effect for Westchester and Rockland Counties until 11 p.m. tonight.

We are so close to being out of this extremely hot stretch, so please just continue to take breaks from the heat and drink extra water until cooler weather moves in Thursday! Of course, you can still have fun outdoors, but just do it in shorter spurts and make sure you are not doing any activities that could cause overexertion.

This record-setting stretch of heat officially becomes a heat wave today. Remember, a heat wave is defined as three or more consecutive days of 90 degree or hotter air temperatures.

Please also continue to check on your pets and make sure they are avoiding hot pavement and drinking plenty of water, too!

An isolated late-afternoon or evening shower is possible today, but there will be a better chance for some scattered showers tomorrow along with the much cooler weather.

Off and on shower chances continue through the weekend. Outdoor plans may be impacted on Saturday. Temperatures will make a return to the 80s again starting Sunday.

FOURTH OF JULY FORECAST: Right now, next Friday is looking great with sunshine and highs in the 80s.

Have a great Wednesday and stay cool!

FORECAST:

TODAY: HEAT ALERT -- A mix of sun and clouds. It is still hot and humid with feels like temperatures around 100 degrees. Actual high temperatures around 94 degrees. Previous record: 92 (1966). There is the chance for a spotty afternoon or evening shower or downpour, but much of the lower Hudson Valley will stay dry all day.

TONIGHT: Variably cloudy with a couple of passing showers possible. Lows near 71 degrees.

THURSDAY: RELIEF ARRIVES -- Mostly cloudy with some hints of sun. Spotty showers and an isolated downpour chance. Not a washout. Highs in the mid-70s and less humid. Lows near 63 degrees.

FRIDAY: Mainly cloudy. A few spotty showers. Not a washout. Highs around 71 degrees. Lows near 64 degrees.

SATURDAY: Mostly cloudy. Scattered periods of rain likely. Highs around 78 degrees. Lows near 68 degrees.

SUNDAY: Sun and clouds. A couple of showers cannot be ruled out. Highs around 82 degrees. Lows near 70 degrees.

MONDAY: Partly sunny. Hot and more humid. Highs around 87 degrees. Lows near 72 degrees.

TUESDAY: Sun and clouds. Scattered thunderstorms are possible in the afternoon and evening. Highs around 88 degrees. Lows near 68 degrees.