Pittsburgh is stepping into a sticky stretch Tuesday, with mostly cloudy skies early, temperatures around 72 degrees and a high expected near 91. The heat will feel closer to 100 degrees during the afternoon, while scattered showers and thunderstorms remain possible before the day settles into a warmer, more humid pattern.
The National Weather Service has no watches, warnings or advisories posted for the area. Still, residents should take the heat seriously, especially during the afternoon, when southwest winds will run 6 to 12 mph and the heat index could approach 100.
Morning Storm Chances Give Way To Afternoon Heat
A slight chance of showers begins around 7 a.m. Tuesday, followed by a few thunderstorms through early afternoon. The rain chance is highest around midday, but skies should turn partly sunny as temperatures climb through the 80s and reach the low 90s.
That timing is a meaningful adjustment from Monday's outlook, which placed the main Tuesday storm chance later in the afternoon. For commuters and anyone making outdoor plans, the best bet is to keep an umbrella nearby in the morning and water handy all day.
Tuesday Night Storms Could Bring Heavy Downpours
Showers and thunderstorms become more likely Tuesday night, especially from about 8 p.m. through the overnight hours. The chance of precipitation rises to 40%, with rainfall amounts generally between a tenth and a quarter-inch, though any stronger storm could produce a brief heavy downpour.
Wednesday looks like the hottest day of the stretch, with mostly sunny skies, a high near 93 and heat-index readings as high as 103. A slight chance of storms returns late Wednesday afternoon, followed by a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms Wednesday night.
Storm Risk Rises Before A Cooler Weekend
Thursday stays hot near 91 degrees but carries the week's highest daytime rain chance at 50%. The weather service says stronger storms are possible late Wednesday and Thursday, with gusty winds and heavy rain among the concerns, so outdoor events may need a backup plan.
Temperatures ease Friday with a high near 86 and another 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Saturday should be cooler near 82 with a chance of showers before early afternoon, while Sunday and Labor Day look mostly sunny near 81 degrees with only slight rain chances.
