Excessively hot and humid to round out the spring season

The last two days were a nice break from the excessive heat and humidity. Unfortunately, both will be quick to return and remain the top weather headline for the next week or so. 

With that being said, excessive heat safety will NEED to be a top priority moving forward, especially if you have any late spring/early summer outdoor plans. The reason being, a strong "ring of fire" ridge planted over the southeast U.S will put us in perfect position for a long-lived stretch of 90° weather. One that as of this moment looks to linger into next weekend.

Father's Day kicks off with temperatures in the 70s as well as with the chance for a few isolated storms. These will pass through non-severe, with chances being best to the west of Rockford and primarily before mid-day. Following the conclusion of this morning's chances, both temperatures and humidity kick up for the afternoon thanks to a warm front lifting through the area. Highs are set to peak in the low 90s. But factoring in dew points temperatures in the low 70s will place heat index values in the 94°-98° range.

More of the same can be expected all of next week, with the warmest temperatures and highest heat index values arriving Monday afternoon. While our heat index will be nearing the triple digits at times, it will likely stay below heat advisory criteria. 

This is when we have widespread values of 105°F or higher. Though any thunderstorms that develop thanks to this week's heat and humidity would likely limit highs for that specific location. However, storm chances will be isolated in nature.

Again, do not think you can brave the heat. Several days of high heat and humidity, with little relief at night, can put added stress on your body. It’s important to know the signs of heat related illness and take the necessary steps to relieve those or seek medical attention if necessary. 

It will also be important to check on those without air conditioning as well as making sure your four-legged friends are taken care of!