A rare heatwave is predicted to hit Washington, marking the transition from a pleasantly warm spring to scorching summer temperatures. With highs expected to reach near or above 90 degrees through Friday and potentially hitting the upper 90s or low 100s in the coming days, residents need to prepare for a lengthy spell of punishing heat that could break records. The onset of true summer conditions will see a sudden change in the region’s weather, with the landscape bursting to life despite the previously rainy weekends.
As the heatwave intensifies, next week is forecasted to bring brutal surges of heat, potentially making it the hottest week in over eight years. Highs could reach at least the mid- to upper 90s, accompanied by rising humidity levels that could result in heat indexes surpassing 105 degrees. This significant increase in temperatures may trigger heat advisories or excessive heat warnings, making it crucial for residents to stay hydrated and cool during this unprecedented heatwave. The shift towards summer extremes highlights the unpredictability of the weather in Washington, with heatwaves becoming more frequent and intense.