Weather alert: Feels like temperatures near triple digits, with scattered thunderstorms later

QUICK WEATHER FORECAST:

• Today: Hot and humid, with thunderstorms later, high 93
• Tonight: thunderstorms, minimum 74
• Thursday: intermittent thunderstorms, maximum temperature 85
• Friday: thunderstorms, maximum temperature 86
• Saturday: sunny, more pleasant, maximum temperature 84
• Sunday: Mostly sunny, maximum temperature 86

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

Good Wednesday!

It's a big day for Central Ohio, with the Red, White & BOOM! set for tonight. Unfortunately, we have to keep an eye on the weather as we approach the event.

First of all, it's getting a lot more humid outside and temperatures are really rising. As a result, we have a heat advisory that goes into effect at noon today, with temperatures feeling like they're approaching triple digits. Be sure to stay hydrated, wear light colors and loose clothing, and take breaks in the shade.

Then as we move into the late afternoon/evening, scattered thunderstorms start to form. The chance of thunderstorms increases later in the evening, but they will be scattered, so it will depend heavily on exactly where each storm forms. We will be monitoring it closely.

The Storm Prediction Center estimates Columbus faces a 2 in 5 risk of strong to severe thunderstorms, with the main threats being lightning, high winds and localized heavy rain.

Stay informed about the weather by downloading the Storm Team 4 mobile weather app, where we will keep you informed throughout the day.

Unfortunately, thunderstorm activity becomes more widespread Thursday afternoon, for the July 4th holiday.

Thunderstorms will persist through Friday, before finally dissipating over the weekend.

-McKenna