Severe weather conditions are anticipated this week as hot, humid, and stormy weather moves into the region, prompting WJZ to declare First Alert Weather Days for Tuesday and Wednesday.
Starting overnight Monday into early Tuesday, temperatures are expected to remain in the 70s, accompanied by patchy fog. However, by Tuesday afternoon, conditions will become unstable as a surge of heat and humidity sets the stage for scattered thunderstorms, some of which could reach severe levels. The primary threats include damaging wind gusts, heavy rainfall, and frequent lightning, especially after 2 p.m. into the early evening.
Before the storms arrive, temperatures are predicted to reach the low to mid 90s, with heat index values potentially surpassing 105 degrees, raising the risk of heat-related illnesses. As Tuesday night approaches, the storms will gradually dissipate, but warm temperatures in the low to mid 70s and patchy fog may persist.
On Wednesday, another set of afternoon and evening storms is forecast as a slow-moving cold front hovers over the area, once again raising the possibility of severe weather characterized by gusty winds, heavy rain, and lightning. Flash flooding is also a concern, particularly in areas that experience repeated heavy rainfall.
This cold front is expected to linger through the week and into the weekend, setting up a pattern of daily chances for thunderstorms mainly in the afternoons and evenings. While not every day may result in cancellation of outdoor activities, residents should remain flexible with their plans. Morning and early afternoon hours are likely to stay mostly dry, with daytime highs reaching the upper 80s to near 90 and nighttime lows remaining in the 70s.
Residents are advised to stay vigilant and informed about the weather conditions over the upcoming days, particularly during peak heating times when severe storms are most likely to develop.