WOAY-TV (Oak Hill, WV): The morning commute will be slightly smoother for most of us, but patchy fog will remain in the Greenbrier Valley until around 9 or 10 o’clock this morning. Mild temperatures and muggy conditions remain for the morning, and these factors will only make things feel worse this afternoon. Temperatures will peak in the upper 80s, potentially breaking 90 degrees in some of our low-lying communities.
However, heat indices will exceed 90 degrees for a majority of the viewing area. This is due to humidity remaining high for the entire day, even during peak daytime heat in the late afternoon. These hot conditions should be taken seriously, especially if you are working outside for extended periods. Hydrating, wearing sun protection, and taking breaks are all paramount for your safety. Listen to your body for symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Meteorologist Christian Boteler has the latest:
The heat dome will move eastward, sitting around the Mid-Atlantic for the middle of the week. This will result in even hotter temperatures and higher heat indices. Conditions for both Wednesday and Thursday will remain sunny and dry, but temperatures will be slightly worse on Thursday. Temperatures will peak in the low to mid-90s while heat indices will range from 92 to 98 degrees generally. However, a heat index of 100 degrees in one of our low-lying communities is not off the table.
As a result of these temperatures and indices, the National Weather Service has placed a majority of our area in a “Major” (red) heat risk. A major risk indicates that anyone without hydration or cooling will be affected by the heat. Those in sensitive groups, including the elderly, should stay indoors unless absolutely necessary. A few areas in our viewing area are within an “Extreme” heat risk, indicating persistent heat with little overnight relief. If you listen to one thing in this article, please make sure to take precautions and stay safe.
While the worst of the heat will occur on Thursday, conditions will stay hot on Friday. Highs will remain in the upper 80s and lower 90s while indices reach the mid-90s. The main difference between Thursday and Friday is the strength of upper-level high-pressure. With high-pressure weakening across the region, the chances for rain increase a bit. There is no major disturbance expected, but weaker high-pressure means more chances for instability causing isolated thunderstorms.
The chances for showers and storms continue to increase this weekend. Most activity will be in the afternoon and evening this weekend, which could affect Independence Day plans. Not everyone will be affected by the rain, but a few areas may see fireworks and other activities delayed or postponed. Keep an eye on the skies on Saturday. On Sunday, a weak disturbance develops to our south, which will bring scattered showers and storms both Sunday and Monday. Chances are increased compared to Saturday, but there are uncertainties within this forecasted disturbance. Here’s the 7-Day Forecast:
