The big heat wave that we're experiencing comes at an appropriate time, as this time of July usually sees our highest average high temperatures. A Heat Advisory is in effect for Connecticut through tomorrow, when we are likely to see another day of high heat inland, with temperatures reaching the upper 90s.
While the big heat will fade a bit, it will still be a hot week. The pattern looks mostly stable for the week ahead.
Monday-Tuesday
As mentioned above, tomorrow is looking like another scorcher, continuing this heat wave. Temperatures will likely reach the upper 90s inland, and a few degrees "cooler" at the shoreline. There will be a small chance of thunderstorms as a cold front pushes through the region, and some of those storms could be strong. For most, however, tomorrow looks dry.
There is likely to be brief relief from oppressive humidity on Tuesday, but the day still looks hot. The heat wave may continue for inland areas with highs in the upper 80s to low 90s. It should be a sunny day with virtually no chance of showers or storms.
Wednesday-Thursday
The most active part of the week looks to be midweek, as humidity increases and thunderstorm chances rise in advance of a cold front. Each day looks warm and unsettled. While it won't rain all of the time, each day has a chance for showers and thunderstorms, with the current guidance leaning toward Thursday being the better chance for strong storms. We'll be watching it.
Friday-Sunday
This part of the forecast is looking good right now. As the cold front passes Thursday, we should see more seasonable and less humid air arrive, along with tranquil conditions under high pressure. Below is a depiction from the latest GFS on the week ahead.
Monday: Sunny, hot, and humid. Highs in the mid to upper 90s. Slightly cooler in SE CT. Chance of thunderstorms during the afternoon and evening. Chance of rain 30%.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny and warm. Less humid. Highs in the upper 80s to low 90s.
Wednesday: Partly cloudy with shower and thunderstorm chances. Humid. Highs in the mid to upper 80s. Chance of rain 50%.
Thursday: Partly cloudy with shower and thunderstorm chances. Storms may be strong to severe. Highs in the mid to upper 80s. Chance of rain 60%.
Friday: Mostly sunny and more seasonable. Highs in the low to mid 80s.
Saturday: Mostly sunny. Highs in the low to mid 80s.
Sunday: Mostly sunny. Highs in the low to mid 80s.
Finally, this week was Hurricane Preparedness Week in New England. After our close call with Fay, it is a reminder that New England is not immune to tropical impacts. The Atlantic hurricane season will likely increase dramatically in activity in the next month or two, as we enter the historical peak of the season. Make sure you are taking time now to prepare.
-DB