ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR)—Hot temperatures and humid conditions will lead to triple-digit heat index values in parts of Southwest and Central Virginia on Wednesday. A Heat Advisory will be in effect on Wednesday for the Roanoke Valley, Central Virginia, Southside, and the Shenandoah Valley.
A building ridge of high pressure will result in a heatwave through the weekend. From Wednesday through Saturday, afternoon highs will be in the 90s to near 100. Little relief from the heat is expected each night as lows will range from the mid-60s to the lower 70s.
Muggy air will make it feel more uncomfortable. Peak heat index values of 95 to 100 are expected in the mountains. Areas along and east of the Blue Ridge can expect heat indices up to 109. Additional heat alerts may be issued through the remainder of the week.
Take precautions to prepare for the heat. Check your air conditioners to ensure they’re working properly. It’s important to stay cool, hydrated, and safe. If you’re working outside, take frequent breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned area. Never leave children or pets inside hot vehicles.
The area of high pressure will keep rain chances very low, but not zero. Isolated spotty showers and storms could still pop up each afternoon.
The high-pressure ridge will gradually break down over the weekend, but it will still be hot and muggy. For the 4th of July, afternoon temperatures will be in the 90s to near 100. Sunday will be a couple of degrees cooler, with highs in the upper 80s and 90s.
While a few afternoon showers and storms are possible on Saturday, there’s a slightly greater chance of scattered storms Sunday afternoon and evening. Overall, the Independence Day weekend won’t be a washout, and not everyone will see rain; however, you’ll want to stay weather-aware. Isolated storms could produce heavy rainfall and gusty winds…