High heat and humidity return along with thunderstorm chances

Yesterday was warm, though the humidity remained at somewhat comfortable levels. Today will be a little different as a more organized southwesterly wind will result in a brief uptick in heat and humidity levels. If you remember how it felt on Thursday, that's how warm and humid it will be today. 

Afternoon highs will reach the low 90s. This will mark the 9th time this year and the 7th time since June 15th Rockford has observed a high at or above 90°. Dew points temperatures will rise back in the upper 60s and low 70s. This will cause the heat index to rise near 95-100° at times. Remember, you can beat the dangerous heat by wearing light colored clothing, taking frequent breaks in the shade and air conditioning, and of course remaining hydrated.

Of course, this heat and humidity comes with the potential for a few isolated thunderstorms, some of which may end up strong to severe. In their latest round of outlooks, the Storm Prediction Center has left the region in its entirety under a level 1 Marginal Risk. Only a sliver of Jo-Daviess County is involved in the level 2 Slight Risk that contains a majority of the areas to our north and west. Any storms we see locally will be very isolated in nature but will be capable of producing heavy downpours as well as damaging winds up to 60 mph.

Isolated thunderstorm chances continue on and off Sunday night, but we will see slightly higher coverage as a cold front arrives Monday. Similar to Sunday's storm chance, these will also be capable of producing damaging winds and heavy rain. On a more positive note, this cold front will briefly put an end to the rise in temperatures from the weekend. Afternoon highs to kick off next week start in the low 80s, then slowly go back toward the 90° mark by the weekend.