Heatwave Expected to Bring Record-Breaking Temperatures This Week
As summer comes to a close, the weather continues to heat up in the area, with temperatures set to reach record-breaking levels this week. According to a somewhat subjective rating of the day’s weather, today scores a 6/10, marking it as an unofficial end-of-summer sizzler with highs in the 90s and plenty of sun. The advice? Find a pool or body of water to cool off in!
The National Weather Service predicts that high pressure will dominate much of this week, resulting in plenty of sunshine and building heat. Temperatures are expected to jump into the low to mid-90s today before surging to the mid-90s to near 100 degrees Fahrenheit on Labor Day through at least Wednesday. This is at least 10 to 15 degrees above average and potentially record-breaking.
While the humidity won’t be oppressive, it will be high enough to add a few degrees to the heat index. Rain chances remain slight as drought conditions continue to worsen in the area.
Today, the heatwave begins with afternoon temperatures rising through the low and mid-90s under mostly sunny skies. The humidity will climb toward the moderate range, with dew points in the low to mid-60s, resulting in heat indexes reaching the mid- and upper 90s. Winds will be light from the west, around 5-10 mph.
Tonight, the heat sticks around, with lows only dropping to near 70 to the mid-70s under mostly clear skies. It will be slightly more humid compared to previous nights.
As the week progresses, the heatwave intensifies. Labor Day is expected to be one of the hottest on record, with mostly sunny skies and afternoon highs in the upper 90s. The humidity will remain in the moderate range, pushing the heat index to near 100 or into the low 100s. There is just a slight chance of a late-day thunderstorm. Records could potentially be broken at Reagan National Airport, Dulles International Airport, and Baltimore-Washington International Marshall Airport.
Tomorrow night, mostly clear and warm conditions continue, with temperatures only falling back to the mid-70s overnight. Record-warm lows are possible.
High pressure will continue to dominate through Tuesday and Wednesday, with both days likely to see record-challenging heat and mostly sunny skies. Daytime highs should reach around 95 to 100, with heat indexes topping out near 100 or in the low 100s. There is still just a slight chance of a late-day thunderstorm on both days.
Looking ahead to Thursday, temperatures may rise well into the 90s again, and highs on Friday will probably be closer to 90 degrees. There is also a chance of showers or storms starting to increase.
As the heatwave worsens, it is advised to stay hydrated, seek shade, and limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Remember to check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly and vulnerable, to ensure their safety.
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