If you’re spending the Fourth of July weekend outdoors, be prepared for oppressive heat and humidity.
Humidity values are only going up
Temperatures will climb into the lower 90s each afternoon through the holiday weekend, but it will feel much hotter as heat index values will range from 100 to 107 degrees.
Fourth of July weekend forecast
Even though those numbers are expected to stay just below Heat Advisory criteria, the heat can still be dangerous if you’re outside for long periods. Be sure to drink plenty of water, take breaks in the shade or air conditioning, and never leave children or pets inside a parked vehicle.
Saturday, Independence Day, looks mainly dry, with plenty of sunshine and highs near 92 degrees.
Like a typical summer day, a few pop-up showers and thunderstorms could develop during the afternoon, mainly between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Rain chances remain low at around 30%, so most communities will stay dry. However, if a storm develops nearby, expect brief heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds.
Futurecast of afternoon shower chances
If you have evening fireworks plans, most locations should be able to enjoy them without weather issues once any isolated afternoon storms move out.
Rain chances gradually increase as we head through the weekend. Saturday will feature another hot day with only isolated afternoon storms, while Sunday has the best chance for scattered showers and thunderstorms as a more typical summertime weather pattern returns.
It won’t be a washout, but you’ll want to keep an eye on the forecast if you have outdoor plans.
Boaters should be aware that a few waterspouts could develop over the Gulf during the late night and morning hours with passing showers and thunderstorms. While these are expected to remain over the water, anyone heading offshore should continue to monitor the latest marine forecast.
Marine forecast for July 4th
The rip current risk on the beaches is low all weekend.
Rip current forecast for the holiday weekend
Overall, the biggest weather story this holiday weekend will be the heat. If you’re celebrating outside, plan for hot and humid conditions and stay weather aware for the chance of an afternoon thunderstorm.
