Southern New England is bracing for a hot, humid day with temperatures feeling close to 100 degrees, particularly in inland areas. The humidity, reminiscent of tropical conditions, is set to fuel the development of strong thunderstorms as a cold front moves into the region.
These storms are anticipated to emerge between 2 PM and 5 PM, advancing from northwest to southeast. Expect them to rapidly intensify into strong to severe storms, characterized by frequent lightning and potential damaging wind gusts. There is also a risk of localized flooding, as the heavy clouds could release rainfall rates between 1.5″ to 2.5″ per hour.
The storms are expected to subside by 9 PM when the cold front moves offshore. However, in its wake, Southern New England will encounter a plume of Canadian wildfire smoke. Residents will likely wake up to hazy conditions on Saturday, with this round of smoke posing a greater concern for air quality compared to previous events this year.
For those with respiratory conditions, it is advisable to minimize outdoor activities on Saturday to reduce exposure to the smoke, which may prompt an Air Quality Alert from the Department of Environmental Management (DEM). Thankfully, the smoke is expected to clear out by Sunday as new weather patterns move in, bringing showers throughout the day, but hopefully some clearing later.
Stay tuned to Storm Team 10 for ongoing updates on this evolving weather situation.