Forecast: Warm And Muggy With Some Storms Today

Temperatures across much of the area reached the mid-80s to low-90s on Wednesday, which is 20 to 25 degrees above the average for the time of year. Portland, Maine reached 90 degrees — one of the earliest such occurrences. This happened before Boston, which "only" reached 89.

Today is a bit of a different day. We will see more in the way of cloud cover and more in the way of humidity. Temperatures will once again reach the mid-80s, but I don't think we'll see any 90-degree readings.

The main weather dilemma today is whether or not we'll see any severe storms. A frontal system approaches from the west and with some energy in the atmosphere, in combination with all the heat and humidity, thunderstorms are a good bet. Some of these storms could reach severe levels, but I don't expect a widespread severe outbreak.

The main threat from the thunderstorms will be for heavy rain and gusty winds and of course is always lightning with any thunderstorm. There's no real risk of tornadoes with these storms today.

Tonight will be warm and muggy and then we'll do this all over again tomorrow. There may be a bit of cool air across northeastern Massachusetts to start Friday, but in general we're looking at another warm and humid day with more afternoon showers and thunderstorms.

Saturday is likely the best day of the weekend with sunshine and temperatures in the 70s. On Sunday a new weather system approaches and could bring some showers, especially in the afternoon, but we'll have to keep an eye on the timing of that system.

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Thursday: Sunny and very warm, noticeable humidity. A shower or storm in the afternoon is possible. Some of these could be strong to severe. Highs 84-89. 70-78 Cape Ann/Cape Cod.

Thursday Night: Any showers end. Warm and muggy. Lows 64-68

Friday: Clouds, some sun, a shower late, more humid. Highs nearing 80. Cooler Cape Cod/Cape Ann.

Saturday: Partly to mostly sunny. 71-76.

Sunday: Mostly sunny and pleasant. Highs in the mid to upper 60s.