Residents across the area can enjoy one more relatively comfortable morning before a stretch of summer heat settles into the region for the coming days.
According to Tri-State Weather Network Chief Meteorologist Patrick Core, temperatures started Thursday morning in the low to mid-60s, providing a refreshing start before afternoon highs climb into the upper 80s near 90. Humidity levels are expected to gradually increase throughout the day as a mix of sunshine and clouds develops.
Core says the warming trend will continue Friday, with temperatures again nearing 90 degrees while summertime humidity becomes more noticeable. A weak weather disturbance could trigger scattered afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms Friday, although many areas are expected to remain dry.
Similar conditions are expected Saturday, with highs around 90 degrees and another chance for afternoon and evening showers and storms. Core says a few storms Saturday could become stronger, producing wind gusts up to 50 mph.
By Sunday, rain chances begin to taper off, but the heat continues to build with afternoon temperatures ranging from the upper 80s into the lower 90s.
The bigger weather story arrives early next week.
Patrick Core says a strengthening ridge of high pressure will allow the first significant heat wave of the summer to settle across the Tennessee Valley. Afternoon highs are forecast to climb into the mid and upper 90s, with some locations approaching the 100-degree mark by the middle of the week.
When combined with increasing humidity, heat index values could reach or exceed 105 degrees during the hottest part of the afternoon. Rain chances are expected to become very limited through much of next week, allowing the prolonged stretch of hot weather to continue into early July.
Forecasters are reminding people to take heat precautions by staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activity during the afternoon hours, checking on elderly neighbors and pets, and never leaving children or animals inside parked vehicles.
Be sure to watch the attached video forecast from Tri-State Weather Network Chief Meteorologist Patrick Core for a complete breakdown of the upcoming weather pattern.
For the latest forecast updates throughout the heat wave, follow Tri-State Weather Network on Facebook and continue checking SValleyNow.com.
