Washington woke to rain, fog and muggy air early Wednesday as a Flood Watch covered the District through late morning. The wet start is only the opening act for a hotter stretch, with temperatures expected to climb into the 90s by Thursday and remain there through early next week.
The National Weather Service said heavy rain could cause flash flooding in urban, low-lying and poor-drainage areas through 11 a.m. Wednesday, August 5. Localized rainfall of 2 to 4 inches in an hour or two is possible, even though many spots may receive closer to a quarter-inch to a half-inch.
Storms And Fog Complicate Wednesday Morning
Showers and thunderstorms are likely through early Wednesday afternoon, with the greatest risk during the morning commute and midday hours. Patchy fog will add to the sloppy start, while temperatures rise from the low 70s into the upper 80s under mostly cloudy skies.
Rain chances ease somewhat later Wednesday, but another shower or storm remains possible into the evening. Winds will begin from the east and southeast at a light 2 to 7 mph before turning more southerly.
Heat Index Could Reach 103 Thursday
Thursday brings a brighter but more uncomfortable setup, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 92 degrees. The heat index could reach 103, and southerly winds may gust to 18 mph before a chance of thunderstorms returns after 4 p.m.
Friday and Saturday will follow the same hot-and-stormy pattern, with highs near 92 and afternoon or evening thunderstorm chances around 50%. Brief heavy downpours and gusty winds are possible, so outdoor plans may need a backup option.
Sunday Offers A Briefly Drier Break
Sunday is currently the quietest day in the extended forecast, with mostly sunny skies, a high near 92 and only a small rain chance. The heat builds again Monday and Tuesday, when highs could reach 94 with at least a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms.
