What to Expect from the Upcoming Summer Heat

If you've been waiting for summer to finally settle into New England, your patience is about to be rewarded—but not without challenges. A pro

longed stretch of hot, humid, and at times dangerous weather is moving in, starting Thursday and likely continuing well into next week. This incoming pattern will bring heat indices well into the upper 90s and even low 100s across much of southern New England, especially inland.

Thursday: A Sweltering Start with Thunderstorm Risks

Thursday could be the hottest day of the year so far for many communities. High temperatures will soar into the 90s away from the coast, with dew points in the 70s making it feel like 97–105°F in the Merrimack and Connecticut River Valleys, as well as the I-95 corridor. A Heat Advisory is in effect, and outdoor workers, event organizers, and municipalities should take precautions: hydrate, take breaks, and check in on vulnerable populations.

Heat Advisory Issued: High temperatures are expected for central and eastern Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and northern Connecticut areas.

Later in the day, strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to develop between 3 and 9 PM, particularly west of I-95. These storms could bring:

• Damaging wind gusts

• Torrential downpours

• Frequent lightning

• Isolated hail or even a brief tornado

  

  Scattered severe storms, including damaging winds and heavy rain, are possible Thursday afternoon across parts of the area, with the highest risk from 4 to 10 PM. Areas in yellow should particularly stay alert for isolated tornadoes and large hail

If you have outdoor plans Thursday evening, keep a close eye on the radar and have a backup indoor location ready.

Friday & Saturday: Brief Relief Before the Heat Builds Again

Behind Thursday’s cold front, Friday will be drier and breezy, with highs in the 80s and gusts up to 40 mph, especially in higher elevations. Saturday looks more unsettled, with a chance of scattered showers or a thunderstorm later in the day.

Sunday Through Mid-Next Week: Long-Duration Heat Wave Likely

Starting Sunday, ensemble model guidance shows a powerful upper-level ridge building over the Northeast. This will lock in a stretch of oppressive heat and humidity, with little nighttime relief. The heat risk could rise into the High Category early next week—especially Monday and Tuesday—even reaching the Cape and Islands by Tuesday.

This kind of pattern increases risk for heat-related illnesses, particularly for older adults, those without A/C, and people working or exercising outdoors.

National Weather Service Alerts: Extreme heat and humidity expected next week, with highest temperatures on Monday and Tuesday. High risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for vulnerable groups. Stay informed and take precautions.

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