More excessive heat this week

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — Summer is officially here and the heat has overtaken the Southeast and the United States.

The heat rolls on into the upcoming work week with highs climbing into the upper 90s and close to 100!

An upper-level high pressure will remain situated over the region, keeping the hot and humid air mass in place.

This heat dome will prevent warm air from rising, trapping it at the surface. This dangerous heat will continue until the upper-level ridge breaks down.

Air temperatures will continue to rise well into the upper 90s to nearly 100 degrees this coming week. While it will be hot, temperatures will not be record temperatures. The record high for Huntsville is over 100 degrees.

With dew points forecast to reach well into the 60s, it will feel very humid and uncomfortable. The dew point will also support dangerous heat index values ranging from 100 to 106 degrees. This will still be just below a ‘Heat Advisory’ criteria; heat index of 105 to 109 degrees for two consecutive hours or longer.

The next several days will be mainly dry, with only an isolated chance for a shower or storm. Storms will be hit or miss through the middle of the week, with very limited rainfall.

The best chances of rain will come by the middle of the upcoming week. However, rain chances will be spotty at best across the state.

Heat Safety:

Make sure you are staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Limit the amount of strenuous activity outdoors and seek shade when needed. Never leave your kids or pets in the car.

With temperatures nearing 100 degrees Saturday and Sunday, the temperatures inside a car will reach nearly 120 degrees in 10 minutes. Also, if you need to be outside, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.

It’s also important to take care of your pets during extreme heat. Take your furry friend for a walk in the early morning or late evening hours. On the walks avoid the pavement as best you can, as the temperature of the pavement could be well over 100 degrees.

With how hot temperatures will be this weekend, it’s important to limit time outdoors and find places to cool down.

In the event your power goes out, keeping your home as dark as you can and blinds to your windows closed will assist in keeping your home cool. If you have a battery-operated fan, use that also to keep yourself cool. Also, check on your elderly neighbors and family members.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.