Pittsburgh, brace yourselves for a rollercoaster of weather—sizzling heat, potential thunderstorms, and a relieving cool down to wrap up the week. According to the National Weather Service Pittsburgh, we're starting with "well above normal temperatures and largely dry conditions through the afternoon," but as evening approaches, keep one eye on the sky and another on your cooling fan.
The weather pattern has been predicted to quite literally change overnight, with storms possibly rolling in and cranking down the thermostat. This potential change is thanks to a shortwave moving over the region, promising to mix up the serene summer day. However, much variation remains in the evolution of these conditions. Basically, if it looks calm now, it might just be the quiet before the storm—or storms, to be more precise. "Active weather with the potential for severe hazards will be possible during the period until the passage of a cold front on Wednesday," the NWS forewarns.
The heat isn't backing down easily though. If the storms decide to slumber, we could be looking at highs in the sweltering mid-90s, with the humidity making it feel even hotter. But if the thunder rumbles early, the temperature might struggle to even hit the 90-degree mark. And when it rains, it pours—with forecasts suggesting timing and presence of convection will also greatly determine the extent of potential heat risks.
By midweek, expect the meteorological drama to peak with possible severe weather on Tuesday, followed by the highest chance of showers and thunderstorms on Wednesday, courtesy of a cold front sweeping through. The result? Dry and cooler air, with high pressure settling in by Thursday—much to the relief of sweaty Pittsburghers. "Dry weather and seasonable temperature return Thursday through the end of the week," assures the NWS, as Pittsburghers can look to enjoy a pleasant end to an otherwise tumultuous weather week.
If you're flying out, or expecting someone in by air, VFR conditions should remain today, but watch out for potential hiccups starting this evening into Monday. The aviation corner of the forecast hints at periodic shortwave movement which could play with thunderstorm chances, but high pressure should reclaim dominance by Thursday, promising smoother skies ahead.
No advisories are currently in place, so take this time to enjoy the heat before Mother Nature decides to indeed throw that wrench in the works. And as always, keep an eye on the National Weather Service forecasts for the latest updates.
