D.C. Area: Tolerable Heat Today, with Good Chances of Downpours on Friday
D.C. Area residents can expect a bearable heat spell today as the summer kicks into high gear. With temperatures soaring to the lower 90s and a slightly lesser humidity compared to previous days, it is set to be a seasonably warm summer day. However, the heat will surge once more on Sunday and Monday, heralding the start of what promises to be a hot week.
Thursday Forecast
Thursday shows promise of a decent summer day. After a stormy night, clouds are expected to dissipate by the afternoon leaving traces of a few puff balls. Although temperatures are set to peak in the upper 80s to lower 90s, the humidity levels are not as high as previous days, causing a slight relief. The “Dew points”, an indication of moisture in the air, are expected to stay in the mid-60s against previous mid-70s.
Night predictions
As nighttime sets in, the storm and showers from the Atlantic are expected to make inroads into the city. With lows predicted to touch the upper 60s to lower 70s, there are likely chances of few showers reaching the area before dawn.
Friday and Weekend Outlook
On Friday, showers and thunderstorms are likely to be intermittent, but tropical moisture in the atmosphere makes it possible for some areas to receive over an inch of rainfall. The expected clouds and downpour should give a respite from the current heat spell, with temperatures staying in the upper 70s to lower 80s.
The weekend witnesses more dramatic weather changes. Saturday should see the rain and storms become restricted. However, the heat will start sneaking in from the west, with temperatures expected to reach the lower 90s. Humidity will likely add to the discomfort.
Increasing heat is expected on Sunday and Monday, with Sunday set for highs in the low to mid-90s and Monday being hotter still in the mid- to upper 90s. Dew points almost at 70 are predicted to intensify the hotness.
Storm and Drought
Over the past weeks, the city has been combating an expanding drought. While stormy weather had provided some relief, residents are now hopeful for more meaningful and consistent rainfall to come. Following Wednesday night’s storm, Thursday’s clearer skies could provide an excellent chance for this much-needed rain to finally arrive.
Heat Tracker of 2024
So far in 2024, there have been 23 90-degree days. The typical average for this point of the year is around 15 days. The yearly average is 40 days with a record of 67 90-degree days in the years 1980 and 2010. Last year had 38 such days raising concerns about climate trends and residents’ wellbeing in future years.
