Boston, Massachusetts will soon be facing a significant heat wave, prompting the WBZ Weather Team to issue a NEXT Weather Alert for the upcoming week. The region is bracing for potentially one of the hottest weeks in recent years, with the likelihood of multiple temperature records being broken.
According to the National Weather Service, an Excessive Heat Watch has been declared for areas just west of Boston, including Middlesex County and southern New Hampshire, where temperatures are expected to soar well into the 90s from Tuesday through Friday. Heat indices may reach 105 degrees or higher during this period.
While these areas will experience the highest temperatures, the rest of southern New England will also be sweltering, with temperatures in the 90s and heat indices over 100 degrees. A Heat Advisory has been issued for most of the region, except for the South Coast, Cape, and Islands, where a cooling sea breeze is expected to provide some relief.
Notably, parts of New England have been identified as having an “extreme” heat risk by NOAA, a rare occurrence for the region. This level of risk signifies prolonged and extremely high temperatures without much overnight relief, posing risks to health systems, heat-sensitive industries, and infrastructure.
As the heatwave progresses, Boston is expected to see overnight temperatures remaining in the mid to upper 70s, nearing record high minimums. There are predictions that Boston and surrounding areas may reach record high temperatures, possibly hitting the 100-degree mark, particularly in the Merrimack Valley and western suburbs.
Wednesday and Thursday are forecasted to be the most uncomfortable days, with heat indices ranging from 100 to 110 degrees in most areas. Safety precautions are essential during this extreme heat, with monitoring for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke recommended, along with limiting outdoor exposure, especially in direct sunlight.
The intense heat is expected to dissipate towards the end of the week, with cooler temperatures and the possibility of showers and thunderstorms. It is crucial to stay updated on weather developments through reliable sources like the WBZ Weather Team on WBZ-TV, CBS News Boston, and WBZ.com for the latest updates and safety information.