The National Weather Service, out of Mount Holly, N.J., issued an excessive heat warning for Montgomery County and surrounding counties early this morning; it will remain in effect until 7 p.m.

According to the warning, heat index values will be in the mid-90s this afternoon. This is the first hot spell of the season. 

And, according to a hazardous weather outlook released at 5:52 a.m., showers and thunderstorms today may produce very heavy rain and flooding.

The National Weather Service suggests the usual precautions: wearing light clothing, drinking water, seeking refuge in the air conditioning and checking up on pets.