First warning days - storms and heat

Storms approach early Sunday
Heat and moisture form
The hottest temperatures of the year are coming

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) – Hope you enjoyed the last milder day in a while. Although it was cloudy most of the day, the UV index was still high enough that extra sun protection was needed. Today’s highs remained at yesterday’s level, reaching nearly 80 again.

Starting today, the weather will be different. The high pressure system that has brought us this milder and drier weather is now moving east. This will release a southerly flow that will bring more moisture and warmth from the south. Additionally, a weak disturbance will move into our area starting Sunday morning. Many of us will wake up to showers and possibly thunderstorms. Some of these storms could be strong to severe and bring larger hail. Some of these storms could also bring up to 1 inch of rain before noon. Father’s Day continues to be a First day of alarm because of the risk of thunderstorms during the morning activities with Dad and then the rising temperatures in the afternoon.

What’s next …

Winds from the south will push temperatures to near 90 degrees here in Madison on Sunday, but our counties to the west will be warmer. Combined with the additional moisture in the atmosphere, we can expect significant heat index readings between 90 and 150 degrees in the afternoon.

First alarm days also apply to Monday and Tuesday because of the continued heat and extreme heat index we could feel. Since these are the hottest temperatures of the year, please use caution when going out in the afternoon or spending extended periods of time outdoors. Keep your pets off dark pavement when walking. Remember, if it’s too hot for you to put your hand on it, it’s too hot for your dogs to walk on it. Temperatures on Monday here in Madison could reach 93°F, which would bring our afternoon heat index close to 100 for some time.