Dangerous heat followed by heavy thunderstorms Saturday

Temperatures will quickly rise Saturday morning before thunderstorms develop this afternoon.

Dangerous Heat

Temperatures early this morning in the Finger Lakes are in the 70s. Extreme levels of humidity persist with heat indexes already pushing towards 80 degrees before 8am.

The temperature will rapidly rise this morning and some areas could be into the upper 80s by 10am. During the late morning and early afternoon hours, most of the Finger Lakes will reach the low 90s. With extreme dew points in the mid or even upper 70s, the heat index will reach dangerous levels above 100 degrees.

This will be similar to the heat the region saw yesterday afternoon. Precautions against heat related illness should be taken, including staying hydrated and avoiding strenuous, outdoor activities.

Temperatures will cool this afternoon as thunderstorms become widespread across the region. Cooler temperatures are also expected Sunday and into next week behind a cold front.

Afternoon Thunderstorms

By the early afternoon, thunderstorms should start to develop over the western Finger Lakes and will quickly become widespread. Numerous rounds of thunderstorms are possible, persisting into the evening hours. Thunderstorms will become more scattered after 8pm, and should primarily transition to showers after midnight.

Frequent lightning will be possible in these thunderstorms. I have heard of a number of cases in Upstate New York recently where people have been struck by lightning, some fatally. PLEASE take cover if you hear thunder! Even if it is not raining, if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck.

In addition to frequent lightning, torrential downpours are likely with these storms. Not only will excessive run off be possible due to the drought stricken, hard ground and in urban areas, but those driving will have near zero visibility as the rain pours down. Remember, never drive through flood waters!

There is also a small chance that a couple storms could briefly have strong winds. While the risk for damaging winds is minimal, one or two areas could see some tree damage.

Weather Settles Sunday

A cold front will push through the Finger Lakes early Sunday morning. Showers will be possible throughout the day, but they should be scattered and light. Temperatures will be much cooler, with highs in the upper 70s and low 80s. More importantly, the air will not be so excessively humid, with dew points backing off into the 60s.

Much of the coming week will have similar temperatures and humidity levels.

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