Summer HeatWave Continues, Tropical Storm Bertha Set to Form Soon: Expect Sizzling Temps and Isolated Thunderstorms

As we head into the latter half of July, the summer heatwave continues to grip the Capital Area, with highs forecasted to reach the upper 90s throughout the week. The humidity will be a major contributor to the heat index, driving it upwards of 110°F on multiple occasions. The Heat Advisory that's been issued for the entire Capital Area from Noon to 7 p.m. Monday serves as a timely reminder to prioritize heat safety. With temperatures expected to reach a peak of around 97°F in the afternoon, it's essential to stay hydrated, pace outdoor activities, and be on the lookout for signs of heat illness. If you experience any symptoms, don't hesitate to seek refuge in air-conditioned spaces immediately.

While the day will start off relatively quiet, with a mostly clear Sunday night and temperatures dipping into the mid-70s, the sun will quickly take center stage, pushing temperatures towards 90°F by lunchtime and soaring to near 97°F by the afternoon. High humidity will be the real culprit behind the feel-like temperature, which may hit 110°F at times. This has prompted another Heat Advisory for the entire Capital Area from Noon to 7 p.m. Monday. The best course of action is to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and others from the heat. Drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day, and monitor the weather forecast for any updates.

Looking ahead to the week, another round of heat alerts is likely on Tuesday as highs flirt with the upper 90s for the second consecutive day. Isolated afternoon thunderstorms tied to outer rainbands of what will then be Tropical Storm Bertha may bring brief respite from the intense heat. These storms will be moving in from the northeast, towards the southwest, and will be more pronounced closer to I-55. While they may not impact the Metro Area directly, some occasional thunderstorms could clip the region.

As the tropical system pulls away late in the week, the summer heat will continue to dominate the Capital Area. However, by next weekend, a subtle uptick in afternoon thunderstorms could bring a few welcome degrees of relief to daytime highs. It's essential to stay informed and adapt to changing weather conditions. Keep an eye on the forecast, and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly.

Tropical Depression Two formed in the northeastern Gulf on Sunday morning, and it's expected to intensify, potentially upgrading to Tropical Storm Bertha as early as Monday morning. The system will meander for the next 48 hours or so before getting a kick to the west, possibly brushing up against the Louisiana coastline by midweek. As a result, tropical rainbands may begin moving through as early as Tuesday afternoon, continuing periodically through Thursday. This is a developing situation, and the Storm Station will provide updates as more information becomes available.

The forecast cone from the National Hurricane Center currently has Baton Rouge within its range. While the track could parallel I-10, the latest data seems to favor a closer alignment to the coast or possibly offshore. As always, shifts in position and timing are always possible, so it's crucial to stay vigilant. For now, the Storm Station expects impacts for inland locations to be relatively minimal due to a moderate amount of wind shear, which will prevent significant strengthening and create a lopsided storm.

Notwithstanding, tropical downpours, coastal flooding, and high tides might become a concern by the coast, depending on the exact track of Tropical Storm Bertha. This highlights the importance of staying informed and up-to-date with the latest forecast. The Storm Station will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.

The Storm Station is committed to providing accurate and timely weather updates to help you prepare and stay safe during this period of intense heat and potential tropical activity. For the latest 7-day forecast and real-time weather updates, please visit our website or social media channels. Stay informed, and stay safe!

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