For several days, I've reported on how central parts of the country have been experiencing relentless heat and humidity. It's now our turn here across Virginia as all of this hot air begins to slide eastward.

Our hottest stretch of weather here in central Virginia will occur Thursday, Friday, and Saturday as the upper-level ridge builds into our area. Thursday will feature highs in the upper 90s, with Friday bringing temperatures of 100º! Things will stay toasty for Saturday, with highs remaining in the upper 90s. The heat gradually starts to back off by Monday and into Tuesday of next week. Of course, it would be an injustice if I only reported the actual afternoon highs - we have to consider how humid the air will be. With high levels of humidity and high temperatures, the heat index (or the "feels like" temperature) will be anywhere from 105º to 110º. This type of heat can take a huge toll on your body if you're outside for too long, with heat exhaustion and heat stroke possible.

As far as our chances for tying or breaking records, it looks like Friday will have the best odds. I'm forecasting a high of 100º on Friday, which would tie the old record of 100º last set in 1998. Thursday's record is 105º, which I'm glad to say will be safe for another year! It also appears that Saturday's record high of 100º will be safe, as I'm predicting a high of 97º. For those of us who don't care for this heat, just remember that the start of autumn is only about two months away!

Happy summer sizzling,

Brantley