Heat Wave and Storms Forecast for South-Central Pennsylvania This Weekend
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South-central pennsylvania residents should prepare for a weekend of sweltering heat, high humidity, and the possibility of late-day thunderstorms.Temperatures are expected to climb into the upper 80s and near 90 degrees today, with even hotter conditions anticipated on Sunday. Relief from the oppressive heat and humidity is forecast to arrive midweek.
Current Conditions and Forecast
Morning clouds will give way to afternoon sunshine and patchy haze or fog. A stray thunderstorm is absolutely possible during the afternoon, but most of the day should remain dry.The tropical airmass currently over the region will persist through tomorrow. highs will be above average, ranging from the upper 80s to near 90 degrees.
Sunday will continue the hot and steamy trend, with a slightly increased chance of showers and thunderstorms developing late in the day as a cold front approaches. Monday will bring a welcome change, with temperatures falling to the lower 80s and a noticeable drop in humidity, as dew points decrease from the 70s to the 60s.
Temperatures will continue to cool through Tuesday and Wednesday, settling in the upper 70s to around 80 degrees. Rain chances will increase on both days as the cold front draws nearer. Wednesday appears to be the most likely day for widespread wet weather before conditions dry out on Thursday. Following the front’s passage, more refreshing temperatures and lower humidity are expected to round out the week, with highs in the low 80s.
Did You Know? The combination of high heat and humidity creates a dangerous heat index, which can make it feel considerably warmer than the actual air temperature. It’s crucial to stay hydrated and take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Hurricane Erin Update
Forecasters are closely monitoring Hurricane Erin, a dangerous Category 4 hurricane currently moving through the western Atlantic. As of this morning, Erin boasts maximum sustained winds of 145 mph, having rapidly intensified from a category 3 storm in just 20 minutes. The storm is moving west-northwest at 20 mph, and further strengthening is expected, possibly reaching Category 5 status with winds up to 150 mph.
While Erin is not expected to directly impact the Susquehanna Valley, residents along the U.S. east Coast should be aware of potential rough surf and dangerous rip currents as the storm turns northward next week. The National hurricane Center (https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/) provides the latest updates and advisories.
Regional Temperature and Conditions
Current temperatures across the region include 78 degrees in Chambersburg, 75 degrees in Lebanon and Lancaster, 73 degrees in Lewistown, and 76 degrees in Selinsgrove. Dew points east of the mountains are very high, indicating the tropical airmass, while dew points are lower in the 60s to the north and west. The UV index will be high once the sun emerges, with a burn time of approximately 25 minutes.
| Location | Temperature (°F) | Dew Point (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Chambersburg | 78 | 72 |
| Lebanon | 75 | 74 |
| Lancaster | 75 | 74 |
| Lewistown | 73 | 68 |
| Selinsgrove | 76 | 70 |
Pro Tip: When working or exercising outdoors, schedule activities for the early morning or late evening to avoid the peak heat of the day.Wear light-colored, lose-fitting clothing and take frequent breaks in the shade.
What steps are you taking to stay cool and safe during this heat wave? How do you prepare for potential thunderstorms in your area?
The high-pressure system over new England is contributing to the southeasterly wind flow, maintaining the humid conditions. A cold front arriving Sunday night will be the key to breaking the heat and humidity. Predictor models show isolated storms developing this afternoon, followed by quieter conditions tonight. Late-day storms are expected to return tomorrow as the cold front approaches.
Air quality is currently moderate due to particulates, but ozone levels are good. Pollen levels for ragweed and grass are also moderate.
Long-Term Trends and Heat Waves
Heat waves are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, according to the environmental Protection Agency (https://www.epa.gov/climate-indicators/climate-change-indicators-heatwaves). These events pose significant risks to public health, notably for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions. Understanding the risks and taking appropriate precautions is crucial for staying safe during periods of extreme heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the heat index? The heat index is a measure of how hot it feels when humidity is combined with air temperature.
- How can I prevent heat exhaustion? Stay hydrated, wear loose-fitting clothing, and take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning.
- What should I do during a thunderstorm? Seek shelter indoors and avoid contact with water or metal objects.
- Is Hurricane Erin a threat to Pennsylvania? No,Hurricane Erin is not expected to directly impact Pennsylvania,but it may cause dangerous surf and rip currents along the East Coast.
- when will the heat break in Pennsylvania? Relief from the heat is expected to arrive midweek, with temperatures falling and humidity decreasing.
Have a great day, and stay safe!