Residents across Delmarva should prepare for the hottest weather of the year so far as a stretch of dangerous heat and humidity is expected to develop during the latter half of the week.
We are closely monitoring a strengthening ridge of high pressure that will build across the Mid-Atlantic beginning Wednesday and continuing into Friday. While recent forecast guidance suggests the ridge may not be quite as strong as earlier projections due to an upper-level disturbance tracking across Canada, temperatures are still expected to soar well above normal levels.
The combination of intense sunshine, warm air aloft, and moisture streaming northward from the Southeast will push afternoon temperatures into the low to mid-90s across much of Delmarva on Thursday and Friday. When combined with dew points in the lower 70s, it will feel significantly hotter.
Heat index values, which measure how hot it feels when humidity is factored in, are forecast to climb into the upper 90s and could exceed 100 degrees in some locations. The highest heat indices are expected across inland sections of Delaware, Maryland’s Eastern Shore, and portions of southern New Jersey.
While temperatures in the 90s are not uncommon during summer, the added humidity can place significant stress on the human body, especially for those working outdoors, participating in strenuous activities, or lacking access to air conditioning. Young children, older adults, and individuals with chronic health conditions are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
Forecasts indicate that Heat Advisories may eventually be issued as confidence continues to increase in the magnitude of the heat. Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and check on neighbors who may be vulnerable to the extreme conditions.
The heat wave is not expected to last indefinitely. A cold front is forecast to approach and move through the region late Friday into Saturday. This front should bring a modest drop in temperatures and humidity levels for the weekend. While conditions will remain seasonably warm, the oppressive heat and tropical humidity currently expected late this week should ease heading into early next week.
Until then, Delmarva residents should prepare for several days of dangerous summer heat and take appropriate precautions to stay safe.
