No relief from blistering heat until next week
Dangerous heat will hit Southwestern Pennsylvania on Friday and Saturday.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory that starts at noon Friday and runs through 8 p.m. Saturday.
It’s been seven years since the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh has issued a warning for excessive heat. That was on July 8, 2012.
The heat index will be up to 104 degrees, caused by temperatures in the lower 90s and dew points in the lower 70s.
The high temperature Friday and Saturday is forecast to be 93 degrees. The record for those days are 97 and 100, respectively, set in the 1800s, National Weather Service meteorologist Myranda Fullerton said.
Hot and humid today. Check on your neighbors/keep an eye on the pets. Upper level wave will cross Lake Erie this aft and dive S across PA. Energy could spark showers/storms late today/evening. Atmosphere unstable, stronger storms a threat. Any activity will curtail the heat. pic.twitter.com/JdDXMKGZg7
— NWS Pittsburgh (@NWSPittsburgh) July 19, 2019
Nighttime lows will also be high in the mid-70s, again because of the high dew point and humidity, she said — about 10 degrees above average.
The heat and humidity may cause heat stress during outdoor exertion or extended exposure. Residents are advised to reschedule strenuous outdoor activities to early morning or evening, and to be alert for the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
It is also suggested to wear light weight and loose-fitting clothing and drink plenty of water.
After this hot weekend, relief is expected next week. Temperatures are actually expected to be below average, with highs in the upper 70s to 80s, Fullerton said.
Brian C. Rittmeyer, a Pittsburgh native and graduate of Penn State University's Schreyer Honors College, has been with the Trib since December 2000. He can be reached at brittmeyer@triblive.com.
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