The stretch of dangerous heat continues through Friday and Saturday as a strong upper-level ridge remains in control across the Southeast. Temperatures will climb into the upper 90s both days, and increasing humidity will push heat index values above 105° during the afternoon.
While the ridge begins to weaken late in the weekend, it won’t happen quickly enough to provide much relief from the heat. Friday will be the quieter of the two days. Most communities will stay dry with plenty of sunshine, although an isolated shower or thunderstorm could develop late in the afternoon or evening. Wildfire smoke will be present in the air again through the day and could lower air quality once again.
Saturday brings another day of oppressive heat, but the atmosphere also becomes more favorable for thunderstorms by late afternoon and evening. A typical summertime lee trough developing east of the Appalachians will act as a focus for storm development. While much of the day will remain dry, any storms that form could become strong to severe, with damaging wind gusts being the primary threat. If you have evening plans, keep a close eye on the forecast…