Washington woke to clear skies and temperatures around 77 degrees Tuesday morning, but the city is headed for a fast climb into the low 90s. The forecast high is 93, with heat-index readings reaching 100 before the week’s heat finally starts to loosen its grip.
A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms arrives after 2 p.m., though the rain chance is only 20% and west winds should stay manageable at 2 to 10 mph, according to the National Weather Service. No watches or warnings are listed for the District as of Tuesday morning.
The updated outlook is a little less punishing than Monday’s forecast. An earlier Hoodline forecast called for a high near 97 and a heat index as high as 102, while the latest guidance trims both numbers and keeps Tuesday’s storm threat limited.
Storm Chances Build Midweek
Wednesday brings a high near 89 with a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms, including a window for storms from late morning into the afternoon. Thursday looks hotter again at 93, but the rain chance rises to 50% as scattered showers and thunderstorms become more likely later in the day.
The National Weather Service says the risk of severe weather is increasing during the second half of the week, although storm timing and coverage remain uncertain. Friday stays warm at 92 with a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms, so outdoor plans may need a backup option.
Weekend Brings A Noticeable Cooldown
Conditions turn more comfortable Saturday, when skies should be mostly sunny and the high reaches 87, followed by a low around 67. Sunday looks even cooler at 84 under mostly sunny skies, while Labor Day Monday stays near 84 with a 30% chance of showers after 8 a.m.
For Tuesday, the practical play is to handle strenuous outdoor activity earlier or later in the day, drink plenty of water and keep an eye on the sky after 2 p.m. Any thunderstorm can bring a quick downpour and gusty winds, even with the overall rain chance staying low.
