by The D.C. region is set to endure another day of intense summer heat on Tuesday, with high temperatures climbing into the upper 90s and heat index values peaking between 100 and 106 degrees. The oppressive weather has prompted Mayor Muriel Bowser to issue an extreme heat alert through Thursday at 8 a.m., with cooling centers available across the District.
Tuesday’s weather will resemble Monday’s, marked by high heat and humidity during the day. A slight drop in humidity is expected in the afternoon, though conditions will remain uncomfortable. The chance of rain is minimal, but a stray pop-up shower or thunderstorm can’t be ruled out in the late afternoon.
Evening conditions will be warm and dry, with humidity levels rising again overnight. Temperatures are expected to dip into the upper 60s to mid-70s by Wednesday morning.
Wednesday is expected to be nearly identical to Tuesday, with another round of highs in the upper 90s and a heat index in the triple digits. According to 7News First Alert Senior Meteorologist Brian van de Graaff, Wednesday will likely be the final day of this extreme heat streak.
A cold front approaching from the west late Wednesday into Thursday will bring a shift in the weather pattern. Isolated afternoon storms are possible on Wednesday, especially west of D.C. By Thursday, more widespread rainfall is expected, with moderate to heavy showers along and east of the Interstate 95 corridor. The Weather Prediction Center has placed the D.C. area under a “slight risk” for excessive rainfall, raising the possibility of localized flooding.
Despite the potential for rain, Thursday will remain hot and humid, with highs around 90 degrees and a heat index exceeding 95. Relief is expected on Friday as the front moves southward. Temperatures will cool significantly, with highs in the 70s and lingering showers throughout the day. Areas inside and near D.C. may reach the low 80s, while higher elevations are expected to top out in the upper 60s.
