Pittsburgh and surrounding areas are currently under the grip of a dangerous heat wave that shows little sign of relenting, with the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh issuing an extreme heat warning and heat advisories through to Wednesday evening. According to a forecast discussion by the National Weather Service, the region could be hitting near record high temperatures today and Tuesday, as a strong ridge maintains its hold over the area.
The relentless heat wave is expected to result in high temperatures several degrees above normal, with climate data suggesting that historical heat records may be challenged over the next few days. As the National Weather Service reported, "A 599 dam 500mb high is progged to be centered over the central Appalachians/Ohio Valley today, as 850 mb temperatures reach 20 deg C." This high-pressure system is the primary driver of the current heat event, leading to conditions that are hot and dry, with relatively few clouds expected to bring any respite.
Residents are being advised to stay cool and hydrated, with particular care being taken for the young, elderly, and those with underlying health issues. An Extreme Heat Warning is in place for certain Pennsylvania counties, while contiguous regions in Ohio and West Virginia have been advised through Heat Advisories. These advisories warn of potential heat-related illnesses resulting from the scorching temperatures, advising people to take appropriate precautions.
Tuesday could see isolated strong storms potentially troubling the area in the afternoon or evening hours. In the extended outlook, shower and thunderstorm chances increase starting late Tuesday over primarily in northwest PA before the axis of potential storms edges southward Wednesday/Thursday. The Storm Prediction Center has noted a Marginal Risk for severe weather in parts of the area north of Interstate 70, mainly due to the dry air above enhancing downburst potential.
Looking further ahead, the forecast suggests a breakdown of the upper ridge into the weekend, with the prospect of showers and thunderstorms returning to a more active pattern. Despite this potential change, high temperatures are expected to remain in the 80s and 90s, with a continuing possibility of heat advisories being extended through Thursday.
For aviators, VFR conditions are expected through the TAF period with light winds veering westerly and occasional afternoon gusts possible. Cumulus development may occur due to diurnal heating, but should subside by the evening. The weather situation is set to shift towards the end of the week as the upper ridge moves south, allowing for an increase in shower and thunderstorm activities across the region.
Residents, visitors, and anyone spending time outdoors in the affected areas are urged to stay informed through reliable sources such as the National Weather Service for updates on the continuously evolving weather conditions.
