The heat wave that claimed lives as it staggered across the nation has settled into the tri-state, pushing temperatures to 97 degrees Thursday in Central Park and a record-breaking 103 degrees in Newark, N.J.

Today is expected to be even worse, reaching a heat index of 110 to 113 degrees and threatening to break records. It’s the seventh day of the scorching summer heat wave, and the heat is not expected to retreat until Sunday.

Con Edison is warning customers to expect scattered outages for the next few days as the power grid is stressed at capacity.

“We’re going to be in new territory, and for us that translates into a very high demand for electricity,” said John Miksad, senior vice president of Electric Operations for Con Ed.

“This is Day 1 of a three-day battle for us,” he added.

The MTA reported Thursday that the heat was causing malfunctions on the platform countdown clocks at about 13 stations. This is caused by equipment rooms heating to temperatures of 120 degrees and higher. In those cases, the equipment has to be shut off so it won’t be damaged.

Miksad said New York City would likely set electricity demand records in coming days.

He said Con Edison has extra crews and support personnel standing by, ready to respond to any heat-related disruptions that might occur. The utility is asking customers to set air-conditioners at 78 degrees or higher, turn off lights in empty rooms and put off running appliances until after 10 p.m.

Nearly all of New Jersey is under an excessive heat warning through Saturday evening as a large dome of high pressure brings stifling heat and humidity to the region.

An excessive heat warning is in effect through Friday evening for the five boroughs, the lower Hudson Valley and Rockland and Westchester counties in New York.

City cooling centers will be open. For center locations and hours, call 311.

The National Weather Service urges area residents to take extra precautions when working or spending time outdoors. Reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening and be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.

Forecasters say a sea breeze might provide some relief at the beaches, but for the most part, there will be little relief before Sunday. Highs Saturday are expected to hit the mid 90s before dropping to the mid 80s on Sunday.

Next week’s forecast looks more seasonable with highs in the low to mid 80s.

(Source: NBC New York)