A severe heatwave has led to alarming conditions during graduation ceremonies in New Jersey, resulting in multiple hospitalizations and significant health emergencies. At a high school graduation in Paterson, 16 people were sent to the emergency room, with reports indicating that over 150 attendees suffered from heat-related illnesses. The extreme temperatures prompted officials to declare a state of emergency, leading to the evacuation of Hinchliffe Stadium and the cancellation of the event. Other graduations were also impacted, with some ceremonies moved indoors and additional medical support provided. As temperatures broke records, many attendees sought medical attention as they collapsed from the heat, highlighting the dangerous effects of the ongoing heatwave on community events.