Philadelphia woke up to a swampy start Sunday, July 5, with temperatures already in the upper 70s and dew points in the low 70s. The city is expected to bake into the low 90s this afternoon, setting up a hot, humid day that will transition to scattered storms late in the afternoon and into the evening.
Afternoon Storms and Flood Watch
A Flood Watch is in effect from 2 p.m. Sunday, July 5, through 8 p.m. Monday, July 6, as multiple rounds of heavy showers and thunderstorms move across the region. The National Weather Service warns that some storms could unload very heavy rain, with rain rates over 2 inches per hour and localized 3 to 4+ inch totals possible. That kind of tropical-style soaking could trigger flash flooding in low-lying and urban areas.
Heat Advisory and Cooling Options
On top of the storm threat, a Heat Advisory runs from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, July 5. The combination of high temperatures and thick humidity is expected to make it feel oppressive, with heat indices reaching the mid 90s in some spots. The city has extended its Heat Health Emergency and is operating cooling centers and outreach for vulnerable residents. For locations and assistance, call 311 or the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging Heatline at 215-765-9040, according to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health.
Timing and Commute Impacts
Storms are most likely to fire up after about 2 p.m. and should be widespread by evening. That timing could make the evening commute a headache, with slow-going traffic and flooded streets in spots. Some storms could also bring damaging wind gusts and frequent lightning. For more background on the heat rolling into the holiday weekend, see Philly sizzles at 100.
How to Stay Safe
If you have outdoor plans, try to move them earlier in the day or bring them indoors, and avoid driving through flooded roads once the downpours start. Be ready to take shelter from lightning and heavy rain. Stay hydrated, check in on elderly neighbors or anyone without reliable cooling, and keep an eye on updates from the National Weather Service and local officials.
