As we round out the month June here in Baltimore we look to close in on our 3rd heat wave of the year. July could come in on a blistering note with high temperatures reaching well into the 90s with heat indices values approaching 105-110 degrees.
So far this year we have racked up 8 days of 90 degrees plus compared to 9 days last year at this time. Technically we are right on par or below average when it comes to heat this year. July is usually one of the hottest months for much of central Maryland and this year looks to be no different.
Later on this week a huge area of high pressure will return to the region to deliver the longest stretch of 90 degree heat. The "Big Bubble Of No Trouble" will send many to find the air conditioners, the beach, or just a source of water to keep cool.
Prior to the heat though we see slightly cooler temperatures along with a return of numerous showers and storms. This will especially be the case for Wednesday as a warm front lifts north followed by a trailing cold front early Thursday morning.
Some of the storms could be strong Wednesday afternoon and evening before the heat cranks back up Thursday afternoon. Gusty winds, vivid lightning, and heavy rainfall will be the primary threats with the storms but really only a piece to the puzzle when it comes to the initiation of the prolonged heat dome for the end of the workweek.
If you really think about it though it is pretty common to see big time 90 degree heat this time of year. Once again we are right on time or slightly behind when it comes to the core of the heat this time of year in Baltimore. As the stats above show we have a lot more of this kind of heat to deal with before Summer ends. After all we just kicked off the hazy, hot, and humid season.
With all that said this is the time of year not only to thing about time outdoors but the dangers of heat. Time and time again it seems that we run a story on someone being left behind in a hot car whether it be a pet or child. It's simple "Look Before You Lock!!" Yes we live busy lives but it's easy to look in the backseat to see if you left anything behind. A temperature outside of 80 degrees can lead to temps above 100 degrees within 30 minutes inside a closed up car.
If your working outside take plenty of breaks and drink plenty of water. Avoid strenuous activity during peak heating hours and don't forget top check on those elderly friends and neighbors. Most of all any activity outside this time of year requires sunblock or sun protection from some sort of clothing. As we roll into Summer the sun angle gets higher in the sky which means the time to get a burn gets smaller. Avoid the burn and lather on SPF as Summer is here to stay!!
