New York City woke up Friday to clear skies and temperatures near 78 degrees, but the muggy air is only the opening act. A heat advisory is in effect across all five boroughs through 8 p.m. Saturday, with heat index values potentially reaching 100.
Friday will turn sunny and hotter, topping out near 86 degrees before showers and thunderstorms become possible after 2 p.m., according to the National Weather Service. Southwest winds will stay fairly light at 3 to 8 mph, but the combination of heat and high humidity will make outdoor plans feel more strenuous than the thermometer suggests.
Storms Could Bring Downpours And Strong Winds
The more unsettled stretch arrives Friday afternoon and evening, when scattered storms could drop heavy rain in a short time. The weather service says the strongest cells may produce damaging wind gusts and isolated flash flooding, especially in and around New York City and areas to the north and west.
Friday night will remain warm and stormy, with showers and thunderstorms likely before 5 a.m. Saturday and temperatures only falling to around 77. Saturday should again reach about 86 degrees, with another chance for afternoon and evening storms as southwest winds increase to 7 to 12 mph.
Heat Safety Remains The Main Concern
Residents should take breaks from the heat, drink water and check on older adults, neighbors and anyone with health conditions. New Yorkers without reliable air conditioning can use the city’s cooling center guidance or call 311 to find a nearby cool space.
Conditions should become more comfortable Sunday and Monday, even though highs will remain near 86 under mostly sunny skies. Humidity may rise again Tuesday, when temperatures could reach 90 and another round of afternoon showers or thunderstorms is possible.
