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Heat Index Up To 110° Possible For Portions of Maryland and Northern Virginia As July Begins

After a potentially stormy weekend, Montgomery County could be in for one of its hottest stretches of the summer as July begins. Daily chances for showers and thunderstorms are expected through Sunday before temperatures climb rapidly early next week, with highs forecast to approach 100 degrees and heat index values potentially reaching as high as 110 degrees by Thursday.

Friday is expected to be warm with a high near 86 degrees and an 80% chance of precipitation. A morning shower will give way to the potential for heavy thunderstorms during the afternoon. Some storms could produce torrential downpours, hail and damaging wind gusts.

The wet pattern continues Saturday, with cloudy and humid conditions, a high around 79 degrees and an 88% chance of rain. Multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms are possible throughout the day, which could impact outdoor events and activities.

Sunday brings another warm and humid day with a high near 86 degrees. While there will be opportunities for sunshine, scattered thunderstorms remain in the forecast with a 55% chance of precipitation. Conditions begin improving Monday as rain chances drop to 25%. Expect partly sunny skies and a warmer afternoon with highs around 89 degrees, though an isolated shower cannot be ruled out.

The heat then quickly intensifies. Tuesday is expected to reach around 91 degrees with partial sunshine before temperatures surge to approximately 98 degrees on Wednesday, 100 degrees on Thursday and 99 degrees on Friday. While isolated afternoon thunderstorms remain possible Wednesday and Thursday, the primary story will be the heat. Current forecasts indicate RealFeel temperatures could climb to around 106 degrees on Wednesday, 110 degrees on Thursday and 107 degrees on Friday.

Residents should stay weather-aware through the weekend for the potential of heavy rain, gusty winds and localized flooding. As the calendar turns to July, the focus shifts to dangerous heat, with officials recommending people stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, check on vulnerable neighbors and pets, and never leave children or animals unattended in parked vehicles.

 

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