Weather Forecast Highlights: Haze Smoke and Thunderstorms Ahead

The coming days bring a mix of weather conditions that will affect outdoor plans and air quality. Expect widespread haze and patchy smoke through much of today and Thursday, followed by a shift toward showers and thunderstorms starting Friday night and continuing into the weekend. This forecast will help you prepare for changing skies, fluctuating temperatures, and varying wind conditions.

Widespread haze and smoke over residential area

Afternoon and Evening Conditions Today

This afternoon, widespread haze will blanket the area until about 3 p.m., accompanied by patchy smoke in some locations. The sky will be mostly sunny with a high temperature near 86°F. Winds will come from the northwest at 9 to 11 mph, with gusts reaching up to 21 mph. These breezes may help disperse some of the smoke but could also carry it to new areas.

Tonight, patchy smoke will linger as the sky turns partly cloudy. Temperatures will drop to around 65°F. Winds will shift to the west at 5 to 7 mph before becoming calm later in the evening. The calmer air overnight may allow smoke to settle closer to the ground, potentially affecting air quality.

Thursday Brings More Smoke and Wind

On Thursday, expect widespread smoke mainly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., with mostly sunny skies and a high near 86°F. Winds will start light from the west but increase to 9 to 14 mph in the morning, with gusts possibly reaching 24 mph. These stronger winds could spread smoke further and create a hazy atmosphere throughout the day.

Thursday night will see areas of smoke before 7 p.m., followed by partly cloudy skies and a low near 60°F. West winds will range from 5 to 10 mph before calming down in the evening.

Smoke haze covering city skyline with partly cloudy sky

Transition to Showers and Thunderstorms Friday and Weekend

Friday will bring mostly sunny skies with a high near 82°F. Winds will be calm in the morning but pick up from the west at 5 to 8 mph in the afternoon. This day offers a brief break from smoke and haze, making it a good opportunity for outdoor activities.

Friday night introduces a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 a.m., with mostly cloudy skies and a low around 61°F. The chance of precipitation is 50%, so keep an umbrella handy if you plan to be out late.

Saturday’s weather will be more unsettled. There is a chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m., followed by a chance of showers between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. After 2 p.m., showers and possibly thunderstorms will continue. The high temperature will be near 82°F, with an 80% chance of precipitation. This means the day will likely be wet and stormy, so plan accordingly.

Saturday night will continue with showers and possibly thunderstorms before 2 a.m., then a chance of showers. The low will be around 62°F, and the chance of precipitation remains high at 80%.

Raindrops on pavement during thunderstorm at night

Sunday and Early Next Week Weather Outlook

Sunday starts with a chance of showers before 8 a.m., then mostly sunny skies with a high near 82°F. The chance of precipitation drops to 30%, so the day should be mostly dry and pleasant after the morning.

Sunday night will be mostly clear with a low around 61°F, providing a calm and cool night.

Monday brings a chance of showers again, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 85°F. The chance of precipitation is 30%, so showers may be scattered and brief.

Monday night will see a chance of showers with mostly cloudy skies and a low around 64°F. The chance of precipitation increases to 50%, so expect some wet conditions overnight.

Tuesday’s forecast calls for showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm, with mostly cloudy skies and a high near 83°F. The chance of precipitation is 70%, indicating a strong likelihood of rain and storm activity.

What This Means for You

• Air quality may be reduced due to widespread haze and smoke through Thursday afternoon. Sensitive groups should limit outdoor exertion during these times.

• Wind gusts could spread smoke to new areas, so keep an eye on local air quality reports.

• Plan outdoor activities carefully on Friday and Saturday, as showers and thunderstorms become more frequent.

• Carry rain gear and stay updated on weather alerts, especially Friday night through Tuesday.

• Temperatures will remain mild, ranging from the low 60s at night to mid-80s during the day.

  
  

By staying informed and prepared, you can navigate the mix of haze, smoke, and storms safely and comfortably. Keep monitoring local forecasts for any updates or changes.

Stay safe and enjoy the weather as best you can.