The weeklong reprieve from Delaware’s excessive heat last month is proving short-lived, with temperatures expected to reach the mid-to-upper 90s later this week.
On Tuesday and Wednesday, temperatures will likely hover around 90 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. While that’s higher than “daily normals” – the agency considers mid-to-upper 80s about average for this time of year – the heat shouldn’t feel overly oppressive.
The heat index on those days, which combines temperature and humidity to estimate what it will actually feel like outside, should remain close to the predicted temperature.
Thursday, however, is expected to reach a near-record temperature of 97 degrees. According to historical weather data from New Castle County, the highest recorded temperature on Aug. 4 was 96 degrees. The heat index will make it feel more like 100 to 102 in the state.
On Friday, temperatures will drop back into the low 90s, with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Saturday is expected to be in the upper 80s, while Sunday and Monday may hit 90 before cooling slightly next week, the National Weather Service predicts.
The agency has not yet issued any heat warnings or other advisories, but that may change as the week continues.
RELATED:‘A hot stretch’: Weather service issues excessive heat watch for northern Delaware
Though Thursday will be hot, it’s far from the highest ever recorded temperature of 110 in Millsboro on July 21, 1930. Coincidentally, the Sussex County town also had the lowest ever recorded temperature of -17, on Jan. 17, 1893, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
This week’s weather comes about a week-and-a-half after much of the U.S. felt excruciating temperatures, which prompted the National Weather Service to issue several excessive heat warnings.
While NOAA’s drought monitor currently shows only about 18% of the state under drought conditions – with all locations in Sussex County – the National Weather Service said this week’s heat “isn’t good news for ongoing drought concerns.”
The drought monitor shows more than 80% of New Jersey and almost 47% of Pennsylvania under drought conditions.
During heatwaves, weather officials urge residents to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned rooms and stay out of the sun as much as possible.
Got a story tip or idea? Send to Isabel Hughes at ihughes@delawareonline.com. For all things breaking news, follow her on Twitter at @izzihughes_
