The city of Pittsburgh is currently sitting under the auspices of high pressure, ensuring our weather remains mostly dry and toasty, at least until we head into the weekend. According to the National Weather Service Pittsburgh PA, today we can expect "high pressure will keep the area mostly dry and warm through Friday morning." Temperatures are set to soar into the mid to upper 80s, creating perfect conditions for anyone looking to get their summer tan started early.
With the sun comes some less-than-ideal companions, however. Hazy skies are on the docket thanks to nearby wildfire smoke. The haze isn't just for show, unfortunately, as it's contributing to less-than-stellar air quality, earning the Pittsburgh region a Code ORANGE Air Quality Alert. Those isolated thunderstorms predicted to bubble up after 2 pm aren't looking to offer much relief, aiming to strike a chord mainly north of I-80. Getting through today unscathed by the elements may be a bit of a gamble.
The heat story doesn't end there. Stepping into the weekend, storm chances are going to mark our calendars, with the unwelcome possibility of isolated flash flooding coming into play by Saturday. Metaphorically dousing our spirits, "moisture advection at the surface and aloft ramps up," reports the National Weather Service, indicating that those pool plans might just have to wait. Friday seems especially prime for storm development, and with moisture levels increasing, we're also keeping an eye out for potential flash floods.
In the long term, Sunday through Wednesday promises to alter our weather patterns yet again. We're seeing daily storm chances extending their stay, with flash flooding potential and low severe threats lining up to test our patience. Temperatures are set to oscillate a bit, leaving us with some uncertainty. Slower scenarios might give us temps in the 80s, while faster-moving patterns suggest we might not escape the 70s. Long-term forecasts are also hinting at a possible rebound to near or slightly above average temperatures later next week.
As for now, the skies above Pittsburgh are scheduled to keep planes moving smoothly, a silver lining for anyone flying in or out. The high-pressure system remains in place, delivering VFR conditions with only some passing cirrus and upper-level smoke expected, thereby maintaining our air of normal transit. However, for those looking skywards from the ground, keeping an umbrella on hand as we head into the weekend might not be a bad idea. Weak disturbances could bring about a surprise shower or two, potentially catching fruit stand vendors and the outdoor lunch crowd alike off guard.
