As the nation gears up for another week of work and play, Knoxville residents are facing a familiar summer pattern: sweltering heat accompanied by an occasional reprieve in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Knoxville, today promises clear skies and high temperatures, photographers and picnic-goers take heed, you're in for brilliant sunlight with the mercury marching towards a fierce 94 degrees—so pack water and seek shade wherever you can find it.
The evening transitions into mostly clear conditions, with lows hovering around 70 degrees, which might provide a mild comfort to those still feeling the day's oppressive heat only to usher in a repeat performance of today’s conditions tomorrow, as Sunday looks to mirror the heat just the same; these back-to-back roasting days leave little doubt that air conditioners across the city will be working overtime. As we edge into the week, NWS alerts show Monday will continue the heat streak though with a 20 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms adding humidity to the already thick air.
While some may relish the sun-drenched days of July, others will count the hours until the sun sets, the night falling with a calm wind and a low around 72 degrees, this minor nocturnal respite being the only cooldown in sight before Tuesday dishes out another serving of heat. Midweek forecasts predict a 40 percent chance of rainstorms in the afternoon, with similar patterns expected through the rest of the week—predictable, yes, but still a wildcard when planning outdoor ventures.
Looking ahead, NWS Knoxville's outlook seems to imply a karmic balancing of sorts, with the chance of precipitation gradually increasing, culminating in a 60-70 percent probability of showers and thunderstorms from Wednesday to Friday—the skies may finally open, and when they do, the parched earth will drink deeply; frankly, whether this spells a messy commute or rescheduled baseball games, it will bring much-needed relief to the relentless heat. For ongoing updates, stay tuned to the NWS Knoxville website.
