As the summer season persists, Pittsburgh weather patterns continue to play a predictable tune of warmth and sporadic storms. In an update published by the National Weather Service Pittsburgh PA, the coming days are forecast to provide a variety of conditions, ranging from dry spells to the potential for thunderstorms midweek. The synopsis of the forecast indicates high pressure anchoring a couple of dry days before a disturbance disrupts the calm on Wednesday.
The near-term outlook promises today to be the coolest of the week, owing to a cooler airmass that has swept into the area. Expectations for below-normal high temperatures complemented by light winds seem to offer a respite from the more stifling days characteristic of the season. However, the weather report mentions that, during the morning, some isolated instances of fog are possible, particularly in areas of higher terrain in northern WV counties, most likely on account of the previous rainfall there. As the skies clear up, the possibility of fog development tonight, particularly in the valleys, lingers, with a 25% to 60% chance of reduced visibility across different regions.
Transitioning through Tuesday, conditions are set to warm up ahead of the next weather disturbance. A southerly flow will encourage temperatures to climb, while the high pressure shifts east, which, according to the NWS, will bring about a notable shift in the temperature trend. With daylight bringing mainly sunny skies expected, Pittsburgh could experience temperatures edging towards the 90-degree mark. Nights, too, will lean towards the warmer side, with lows potentially hovering around 70 degrees.
Midweek heralds a shift, as a shortwave trough dips into the Upper Ohio Valley, inciting the potential for precipitation. Thunderstorms are predicted to arise on Wednesday afternoon, though there seems to be low confidence in the severe weather threat. The NWS outlines a chance for downburst potential given some dry air aloft, while also preparing for the possibility of an "Excessive Rainfall forecast" in certain areas. As tumultuous as the weather may seem, precipitation is expected to taper off after sunset, barring any lingering weather systems.
Looking further ahead, the forecast thins out predictably, promising more dry days with temperatures that continue to soar above average. Despite the high heat, the report hints at a decrease in the likelihood of 90°F days and affords a little relief as nighttime lows dip into the mid-60s. The aviation sector can breathe a sigh of relief with VFR weather forecasted to persist through Tuesday, and the NWS anticipates a return to high pressure and dry weather to close out the week, ensuring clear skies for travelers and residents alike.
