Heat Alert: Another hot day ahead of strong storms and a cool, rainy Memorial Day weekend
Hudson Valley faces another round of summer-like heat Wednesday before thunderstorms and a sharp cooldown arrive ahead of a wet holiday weekend
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A heat advisory is in effect through the evening hours for western Dutchess and eastern Ulster counties, where temperatures are expected to climb into the mid-90s and feel even hotter at times.
No matter where you are across the Hudson Valley, today should be treated like a midsummer day. Residents are urged to use caution if spending extended time outdoors as temperatures run 10 to 25 degrees above average. Many communities will reach the mid-90s this afternoon, while increasing humidity levels will make conditions feel even more uncomfortable. Feels-like temperatures are also expected to rise into the mid-90s.
An air quality alert remains in effect for Rockland and Westchester counties until 11 p.m. due to elevated ozone levels. This is a typical summertime issue that develops when high pressure settles overhead and winds remain light. Pollutants from vehicles, buildings and other sources become trapped near the surface, creating unhealthy air quality for those with respiratory issues or heart-health concerns. Residents are advised to avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the afternoon.
There remains a slight chance for a pop-up shower or thunderstorm this evening, although most locations are expected to stay dry. The greater concern arrives on Wednesday afternoon and evening as a strong cold front approaches the region, following another 90-degree day.
The primary impact window for thunderstorms will be between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Wednesday. A line of showers and thunderstorms is expected to develop, with some storms potentially becoming strong to severe. Any severe storm could produce damaging wind gusts, heavy downpours and small hail.
A few lingering showers may continue overnight Wednesday into early Thursday morning, especially across Westchester and Rockland counties, before drier air begins moving into the region.
Temperatures will cool significantly for Thursday and Friday with conditions turning much more seasonable, although skies will still feature a mix of clouds and sunshine.
Unfortunately, the Memorial Day weekend forecast continues trending unsettled for the unofficial start of summer. Rain chances will increase late Friday night and continue through much of the weekend. Saturday currently appears to be the wettest day with periods of moderate and steady rain expected. Cooler-than-average temperatures and scattered showers may linger into Sunday and Memorial Day before temperatures rebound into the 70s early next week.
