As the National Weather Service in Washington D.C. reports overcast skies with a cozy 77°F, residents can prepare for a day of scattered showers and potential thunderstorms, particularly before 2pm. Humidity grips the region at a substantial 82%, with a light and variable wind weaving through the streets. Forecasters are predicting a high near 90 degrees today, with the chance of precipitation at a dicey 50%. For those venturing out tonight, you can expect partly cloudy conditions with the temperature graciously dipping to a low around 75, carried by a calm wind.
Looking ahead to Sunday, it appears necessary to once again brace for another bout of heat, as a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms is predicted to arise after 2pm. The weather service, not one to often split their forecast, does project a sunny day with a sizzling high near 96 degrees, and the heat index values marsupially jumping as high as 102. Light and variable winds should do little to cool down the day, with the chance of precipitation lingering at 20%.
The start of the work week doesn't seem to promise much solace from the heat either. Monday is set to be sunny and hot, with temperature forecasts soaring near a blistering 100 degrees. While there's a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms come afternoon, calm winds shifting west at about 6 mph might provide some small measure of relief. Those out late might catch a break with a light chance of showers and thunderstorms before 2am, and the night air cooling down to a low around 75.
Tuesday promises more of this enduring cauldron, with the mercury expected to climb to even more oppressive heights of around 101 degrees under sunny skies. The respite of night falls only slightly cooler at a low around 78. It's not until Wednesday that the pattern looks to possibly break, with a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms set to offer some reprieve during the afternoon. Such patterns are typical for a sweltering D.C. summer, an unrelenting reminder to all to remain hydrated and cautiously to monitor potential changes in the weather.
In light of the sweltering forecast, the National Weather Service's Hazardous Weather Outlook cautions about hot and humid conditions sustaining from Sunday through Wednesday of the upcoming week, with heat index values perilously reaching or exceeding 100 degrees. As is often the case when heat and humidity hold court, the stage is set for severe thunderstorms, particularly by mid-week. Residents are strongly encouraged to stay informed on the latest weather developments, as conditions can rapidly evolve.
