WDBJ issues First Alert Weather Day for Friday, 100 degrees — Wsbt Weather

wsbt weather issued a First Alert Weather Day for Friday afternoon and evening as dangerous heat, humidity and the chance for severe weather build across the area. Highs will climb into the 90s for several hometowns, with feels-like temperatures near or above 100 degrees.

WDBJ also said the Storm Prediction Center placed a good portion of the area under a Slight Risk of severe weather. Coverage of severe storms is expected to be higher than Thursday, while most of the widespread soaking rain is expected to stay west through Friday.

Justin Povick on Friday

Chief Meteorologist Justin Povick explained in depth what a storm cap is on Wednesday afternoon and how it could affect the local forecast over the next couple of days. That setup leaves Friday with enough instability for localized downpours and ponding water in spots, even as the broader soaking rain stays west.

The area remains in severe and extreme drought, and the drought monitor got a little worse during the week. That limits how much relief Friday's rain can bring, especially with only hit or miss thunderstorms expected for the foreseeable future.

Saturday After The Front

Quiet weather will return Saturday once the front pushes through, and low humidity is expected that day. By Sunday afternoon, spotty storms are possible again, keeping the forecast unsettled after the brief break.

For now, the main change for Friday is the combination of heat, humidity and storm potential in one afternoon and evening stretch. Anyone planning to be outside should prepare for very warm conditions and the chance of quick downpours that could leave water standing in low spots.