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HARTFORD, CT (WFSB) — What’s expected to be the most extreme heat wave of 2019 continues on Saturday.
Meteorologist Mike Cameron said temperatures will steadily climb as the day progresses.
“Temperatures will climb during the day and we could even reach 100 degrees. Mixed with high humidity, the heat index could reach upwards of 110 degrees or higher!,” said Cameron.
The National Weather Service has already issued an excessive heat warning for the state starting Friday and lasting through Sunday.
A Channel 3 Early Warning Weather Alert remains in effect because of the predicted heat.
“Along with high temperatures, unfortunately, we’re also expecting to see high levels of air pollution and it is important to take appropriate precautions when ozone levels are elevated, especially during a major heat wave,” said Commissioner Katie Dykes. “Residents planning to spend time outdoors this weekend working or exercising should be mindful of air quality and consider limiting strenuous outdoor activity.”
DEEP said strong sunshine and high temperatures support high levels of tropospheric ozone, also called smog.
It said most of the state could see unhealthy levels of ozone this weekend.
There is a chance for isolated storms around the state starting Saturday afternoon.
“In the heat of the day we could see some very brief relief in the wind that comes down with the rain from these storms,” Cameron said. “We don’t expect anything severe with this though.”
If 100 is achieved at Bradley International Airport, the record for July 20 will be tied. It’s from 1991.
The last time it reached 100 degrees in Hartford was 2012.
The July 20 record for Bridgeport is 95, which was also set it 1991.
The heat continues on Sunday.
For July 21, the records are 101 for Hartford and 98 for Bridgeport.
“Factoring in the high humidity, it will feel more like 105-110 both days,” Meteorologist Mark Dixon said.
Combining the heat with humidity will lead to dangerous conditions over the next three days.
“Then there is a better chance [for storms] late Sunday, but more so Monday as a cold front approaches and moves into the region,” Dixon said.
By Monday, highs look to scale back to the 80s.
Read the complete technical discussion here.
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