As the 4th of July holiday weekend approaches in Western New York, residents can expect a mix of weather conditions with the possibility of thunderstorms posing a threat to fireworks displays. However, it overall appears to be a pretty decent week ahead, with periods of dry weather and increasing warmth and humidity.
The likelihood of rain will be highest starting Wednesday evening and overnight, and again towards Friday evening. Despite this, there will be considerable dry time during Independence Day, allowing for outdoor celebrations and activities.
On Wednesday, temperatures will be very warm accompanied by a breeze and increasing humidity. The day will start with lots of sunshine in the morning, but more clouds will mix in during the afternoon. By late afternoon, there is a chance of spotty showers or thunderstorms. High temperatures will range from 82 degrees along the Erie shore to 88 degrees in the north. Winds will be from the south-southwest at 10-20 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph.
Wednesday night will be very humid, with scattered evening showers and thunderstorms. These heavy downpours will settle southward of Buffalo after midnight. Low temperatures will range from 67 degrees in the valleys well south to 72 degrees along the Erie shore. Winds will be from the south at 5-15 mph.
On Thursday (Independence Day) the weather will be warm and very humid. There may be isolated early showers in the south, but overall the day will be partly sunny. High temperatures will range from 80 to 87 degrees with a southwest wind of 8-15 mph. Low temperatures will be around 67 degrees.
Friday will continue to be warm and very humid with partly sunny skies. However, rain showers and isolated thunderstorms are expected to develop towards the evening. High temperatures will reach 87 degrees, with a low of 70 degrees.
As we head into the weekend, Saturday will remain humid with a few very spotty morning showers tapering off in the afternoon. The day will become partly sunny with a high temperature of 78 degrees and a low of 65 degrees.
Sunday will bring slightly less humidity with partly sunny skies throughout the day. High temperatures will reach 78 degrees with a low of 64 degrees.
While the possibility of thunderstorms may threaten fireworks displays, residents can still look forward to a great holiday weekend full of sunshine and warm weather. It is advised to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and plan outdoor activities accordingly.