Washington is waking up to clouds and a cool 54°F at Reagan National this Friday morning, with northwest winds already starting to flex. Skies brighten this afternoon, and highs should reach near 73°F, but the breeze will keep it feeling a bit cooler at times. Small Craft Advisories are posted on parts of the Chesapeake and the tidal Potomac through about 4 p.m., so boaters can expect choppy water and some punchy gusts.
Afternoon Winds And The Commute
Northwest winds around 10 to 12 mph this morning are expected to gust into the 20 to 25 mph range through midday, then gradually ease late this afternoon. Those gusts could send unsecured patio furniture skittering and make bike and waterfront crossings a little less pleasant, so secure loose items and allow extra time if your route runs along the river. Overnight should turn calmer and cooler, with lows dipping into the upper 40s to low 50s.
Weekend Warm-Up
Saturday, May 16 is on track to be sunny with a high near 85°F, and Sunday, May 17 looks even hotter, climbing toward 90°F with only a slight chance of showers or thunderstorms after mid-afternoon. Most of the metro area should stay dry through the weekend, although a few afternoon storms could bubble up over higher terrain. If you have outdoor plans, be ready for strong sun and heat on Sunday and try to schedule the heavy lifting for the morning hours.
Heat Builds Early Next Week
Early next week, the real heat kicks in. Monday, May 18 is forecast to reach near 94°F and Tuesday, May 19 near 95°F, raising the possibility of heat-related headlines by midweek. Humidity is set to climb as well, which will add extra stress for outdoor workers and older residents. A return of scattered showers and storms is possible on Wednesday, May 20 as afternoon instability increases. This outlook comes from the National Weather Service, which notes that heat-safety measures may be needed if these highs verify.
How To Prepare
Stay hydrated, avoid heavy exertion during the hottest part of the day, and line up cooling options if you do not have air conditioning. The District lists cooling-center locations and heat-safety tips online through its Staying Cool guidance. Boaters should stick with the Small Craft Advisories and check local updates before heading out. Everyone should keep an eye on later forecasts and radar through the weekend in case any pop-up thunderstorms try to crash outdoor plans.
