Pittsburgh residents can expect a respite from humidity and possible storms today. The forecast puts a bright spin on the weekend, promising dry weather and clear skies as high pressure makes its way into the area. After early morning fog and low clouds dissipate, we're looking at scattered cumulus clouds but also relief from the mugginess that's clung to the city streets like an unwelcome second skin, according to the National Weather Service.
As the cloak of humidity lifts, the south and east regions around Morgantown might not be as lucky, with the specter of scattered showers and thunderstorms potentially showing up on Saturday. While the cold front pushes through southwest PA to southeast OH today, the 500mb flow is heading westerly, deciding to leave behind some drier air and hopefully some happier Pittsburghers.
Moving into the short term, from Friday through Saturday night, things are shaping up to keep the umbrellas closed and the picnic blankets out. Dry through the period north of I 68 under high pressure reports the National Weather Service. However, a sneaky southern stream shortwave is plotting to bring in some unwanted shower and thunderstorm chances come Saturday south of I 68.
Hitting into the long term, Sunday through Wednesday are shaping up to be mainly dry. But like a guest lingering after the party, shower, and thunderstorm chances could invite themselves back to the party by later Monday into mid-week. Rising temperatures will remind Pittsburgh, natives, that, despite the temporary break, summer is still very much in session, humidity and all. According to the National Weather Service Pittsburgh, "Moist advection, and individual shortwaves embedded in southwest flow ahead of the approaching trough, should return scattered showers and thunderstorms to the forecast late Monday through mid week."
For those concerned with the potential transportation hindrance, low-level stratus and fog have not overstayed their welcome, lifting off between 12Z to 14Z this morning. Findings from the National Weather Service predict VFR conditions Friday afternoon into Saturday as a ridge axis builds over the Great Lakes giving the green light to those in transit and the skies.
