After a pleasant day Tuesday (with a record-tying morning low of 52 degrees), we will begin to climb toward a well-advertised heat wave. Things are fairly comfortable this morning with temperatures in the lower to middle 50s. With high pressure at the surface and aloft, expect a mostly sunny and very warm/dry day with highs in the upper 80s to lower 90s.
It will be a slightly warmer night as overnight lows only dip to the lower 60s (under a mostly clear sky). The strong upper level ridge settles over the region starting tomorrow. Temperatures will soar to the upper 90s to around 100 degrees Thursday through Saturday. In addition to the extreme heat, low humidity and strong southwest gusts will bring brush fire concerns to the entire Commonwealth. Due to these factors, the National Weather Service has issued a Fire Weather Watch for tomorrow. Conditions stay hot and dry this weekend with slight chances for isolated afternoon showers Saturday and Monday. The daytime shower chances are due to the strong ridge breaking down slightly. Either way, get ready for a heat wave by this weekend.
Don’t forget about your pets. Give them fresh water and allow them to stay indoors (in the A/C) during this upcoming heat wave.
WKYT Meteorologist
Todd Borek