Forecast: Storms to Blow Away Heat

2008 is turning into the year of the severe thunderstorm in the metro area. Over the last few weeks, strong to severe storms have threatened us every several days. A strong late spring cold front will power through the region today, setting the stage for another round of potent storms. It's not a sure thing everyone will be affected, but be on the lookout for storms beginning early this afternoon through 8:00 or 9:00 p.m. tonight. After these storms pass, mostly tranquil and cooler conditions will set up shop for the rest of the week.

TODAY (MONDAY)

Radar: Latest regional area radar loop, courtesy HamWeather. Refresh page to update. Click here to zoom.

Very warm. 50/50 chance of t'storms. 85-89. Humidity will be a notch higher than yesterday as will temperatures. This sticky air will juice up the atmosphere for possible storms this afternoon and evening. Storms could pop up in the western suburbs as soon as early afternoon, but the most likely time frame for storms should be between about 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. from west to east. A few storms could reach severe levels, with strong winds and hail the main threats.

Overnight, after the storm threat wanes mid-evening, skies should gradually clear. Cooler air will closely follow with lows dropping down to 60-65 (suburbs-city).

Confidence: Medium-High

Keep reading for the forecast through the week.

TOMORROW (TUESDAY)

Sunny and refreshing! 79-83. Absolutely gorgeous weather arrives tomorrow courtesy Canadian air. Cool winds from the northwest (at around 10 mph) will hold high temperatures to just about 80 with low humidity levels. Except for some lingering clouds in the morning out to our east, most of the day will be sunny and delightful.

Overnight, air conditioners will earn a much deserved break. Low temperatures will drop into the 50s in the cooler suburbs and even urban areas will cool to the low 60s.

Confidence: High

A LOOK AHEAD

Wednesday will remain comfortably cool for the time of year, but some clouds may develop during the afternoon as a weak wave in the atmosphere ripples through. This wave may even produce a stray shower or thunderstorm, but more likely north and west of the metro area. High temperatures should range from 77-81. Confidence: Medium

Thursday and Friday both appear like they'll be fantastic days. They should both feature more sun than clouds with high temperatures in the low 80s. Confidence: Medium-High

Current indicators suggest the first official weekend of summer should be dry. Temperatures should be about average with highs 82-86 Saturday warming to 84-88 on Sunday. Confidence: Medium