Heat wave expected this weekend during some cities’ Independence Day celebrations

MIAMI VALLEY — The heat is on for this weekend. Some cities who are celebrating the Fourth of July the weekend before will need to be ready for the heat. An area of high pressure will build back in Friday and dominate the forecast through the weekend. A heat wave is expected to develop; this occurs if there are three 90 degree days in a row. Dayton had its first heat wave of the year June 16-18.

This weekend through Independence Day, the Miami Valley could hit 90 degrees. Dew points will be in the 70s signaling a very moist air mass. This combination of heat and high humidity will allow the heat index to range from 100-105 through the weekend. Most of the weekend will be sunny but an isolated storm could pop with the heat of the day. UV index will be very high so be sure to apply and reapply sunscreen.

While you are enjoying your weekend remember to check on your pets. The pavement temperatures can be even hotter than the air and the car can climb 20 degrees in less than 20 minutes on a warm sunny day in the summer.

The heat index being around 100 also makes heat related illness another threat to monitor. Take breaks, stay hydrated and get into the air if you start feeling dizzy or overheated.

Long range patterns show this heat will linger into the beginning of July. The Climate Prediction Center has the Miami Valley in a 70-80 percent chance of staying at or above normal for the first week of July. Low 80s are typical for this time of year and your Storm Center 7 team agrees will likely be that warm or warmer.

FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS PLANNED THIS WEEKEND

Star Spangled Heights

WHEN: Saturday, June 30, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

WHERE: Thomas A. Cloud Park, 4707 Brandt Pike, Huber Heights

COST: Free

West Milton 4th of July Celebration

WHEN: June 29-July 4

WHERE: West Milton community park, Ohio 571 and Washington Street.

COST: Free admission. Costs per activity.

INFO: Website

Light Up Liberty 

WHEN: July 1, 6-10:15 p.m.

WHERE: Princeton Pike Church of God, 6101 Princeton Glendale Road, Liberty Township

COST: Free

MORE INFO: 513-867-1995 or www.lightupliberty.com