WOAY-TV (Oak Hill, WV): The morning commute will be warm and muggy. Relative humidity will remain at 100% for a lot of places, which means the air is saturated with water vapor. That will lead to a very soupy feeling not just this morning, but throughout the day. A few patches of fog are likely, so be careful as you drive this morning. Otherwise, conditions remain partly cloudy, eventually becoming sunny later. Despite the humidity and heat, high pressure will stunt shower potential. Temperatures will reach into the lower 90s today. However, the humidity will make things feel even worse.
The heat indices, also called “feels like” temperatures, will range between 92 and 98 degrees across the region. A few spots to our west will exceed heat indices of 100 degrees, including Charleston and Huntington. As a result, Extreme Heat Warnings have been issued across the western half of the state. For our viewing area, the Heat Advisory for western Fayette, McDowell, western Nicholas, western Raleigh, and Wyoming counties remains. Meteorologist Christian Boteler has the latest:
Temperatures will only increase as we head into Thursday and Friday. By Thursday afternoon, our region will be in the mid-90s with heat indices approaching or breaking 100 degrees depending on elevation. Thursday will be the worst day in terms of heat, but Friday will be right behind it both literally and figuratively. Relief is not expected tomorrow, but a few scattered storms will develop later in the day on Friday. However, conditions will be uncomfortable even with the chances of rain developing late this week.
With high temperatures and humidity comes the risk for heat related illness. Staying inside will be the best way to avoid any complications. If being outside for an extended period is necessary, make sure to take all precautions. Drink plenty of water, use sun protection, find shade, and take plenty of breaks. Below is a graphic showing the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you feel any symptoms of heat exhaustion, take an extended break in the air conditions and drink water. If your symptoms align with heat stroke, call 911 immediately.
Rain chances start developing late Friday, but will continually increase through the weekend and early next week. Independence Day may be affected by scattered thunderstorms while remaining hot and humid. The timing of storms will range from the afternoon through the evening, which could affect fireworks and other celebrations. It will be important not only to stay hydrated and cool, but also to keep an eye on the sky through the holiday. Not everyone will be affected by the rain, but the chance is there.
A frontal system will slowly drift into the region late this weekend, resulting in an increase of rain chances from Sunday through the rest of the extended forecast. Temperatures will also start to drop, finally getting us out of the heat wave. By Tuesday, we’ll be back to around average temperatures across the region. Remember to stay cool and stay safe this weekend! Here’s the 7-Day Forecast:
