Aug 5, 2012 Noon Update

12 PM: Very humid; storms approaching


A very humid air mass is located over the region, with high dew points steady over the mid 70s as temperatures rise into the mid 80s to lower 90s. As a result, much higher heat index values are taking place, ending up as high as the mid to upper 90s in the immediate NYC area with a peak of 98 degrees in Newark, while the actual high temperature is only 88 degrees there. Temperatures are still rising at this time, and will peak in the lower to mid 80s in Long Island/S CT and the upper 80s in most places from NYC and further north/west. Some areas may reach and/or slightly exceed 90 degrees. With the high humidity, heat index values will reach the mid to upper 90s for most of the area, perhaps reaching and/or slightly exceeding 100 degrees in a few spots.

Mostly cloudy to cloudy skies will continue for the rest of the day as widespread thunderstorms are developing ahead of an approaching cold front. Scattered storms are expected especially west of NYC after 2 PM, some of these storms strong and capable of producing strong winds and heavy rain, although the main line of storms isn't expected to reach the area until after 10 PM to 12 AM, lasting through the early morning hours. These storms should remain below severe levels, but will be capable of producing heavy rainfall above 1-2 inches and localized flash flooding. Another update will be posted later today.