Heat and Humidity Will Make for Miserable Conditions Out East

Posted: June 26, 2021 2:07 am

Although the main weather storyline this weekend will be the record heat out west, the East Coast is also going to be baking in the early summer warmth.

Northeast Sizzle

The Northeast will sizzle as the mercury begins an upward trajectory this weekend and into early next week. Many of the most populous cities along the busy Interstate 95 corridor will experience the second real heatwave of the year. While the temperatures will not rival the record-breaking heat that will take hold in the Pacific Northwest, the Northeast will swelter with temperatures up to 10 degrees above average for the last week of June.

These temperatures will feel even warmer when juxtaposed against the moderate readings and lower humidity levels of the last several days. The mercury was registering as much as 15 degrees below normal for the last few days. This heat will dip down into the mid-Atlantic states as well.

High Pressure the Culprit

A broad area of high pressure is expected to build off the East Coast over the next few days. This will pair with a blast of humid air to deliver warm and muggy conditions. While the Midwest will be under the gun for more severe weather this weekend, this precipitation is not likely to move farther to the east.

However, despite the lack of significant precipitation out east, the boost in humidity and temperatures may cause some isolated afternoon thunderstorms and showers to ignite. The muggy conditions are also forecast to hang on throughout the week, making it miserable for many people who need to spend an extended period of time outside.

Triple-Digit Readings

No major city along the East Coast will be spared this temperature ramp-up. New York City, Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington, DC, are all predicted to hit 90 degrees in the coming days. The humidity levels will make the temperature feel even higher.

As the humidity continues to build early next week, the real feel temperatures may soar over 100 degrees in some areas.

Defining a Heatwave

A heatwave in this area of the nation is generally defined as three or more consecutive days of temperatures above 90 degrees. Philadelphia is predicted to see at least four days of temperatures above 90 degrees beginning on Sunday. If this happens as projected, it will be the second official heatwave for the city in the early summer months.

Washington, DC and Baltimore are also set to experience a heatwave. The current forecast shows that New York City and Boston will fall just shy of reaching this barometer of an official heatwave.

The best place to be over the next several days will be at the beach. Cool coastal breezes coming off of the ocean will help to moderate temperatures and help residents find relief from the blast of heat.

Experts warn residents to stay hydrated, avoid being outside during the peak heat in the afternoon hours, and take frequent breaks if forced to be outdoors.