By Brian M. Johnson, The Bristol Press
June 8, 2021
A third day of 90 degree temperatures Monday has resulted in the declaration of a heat wave, though relief is expected to come by Thursday, according to WFSB Meteorologist Bruce DePrest.
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DePrest said three consecutive days of at least 90 degree temperatures is required for an official heat wave designation. This, he said, is very common in early June or May.
“It began Saturday with a high of 92 and we had a high of 94 on Sunday,” he said. “Many places are at around 90 today.”
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DePrest said people can expect temperatures in the 90s Tuesday and Wednesday as well before temperatures drop back into the 80s on Thursday and the 70s on Friday. The weekend, he said, will be “seasonably warm.”
“This will be a five-day heat wave,” he said. “The longest we’ve ever had was 10 days and that happened twice in the last 116 years on record.”
There will be a chance for rain showers and thunderstorms Tuesday and Wednesday.
“The thunderstorms are related to the heat and humidity tomorrow and the approaching cold front on Wednesday,” he said. “It is that cold front that will bring us relief late Wednesday night. By Thursday the air will dry out and it will be more like 82 degrees – much better than 95.”
On Monday, a “heat advisory” was issued due to the humidity making temperatures feel like 95 to 100 degrees.
“The combination of heat and humidity is causing a heat index with an apparent temperature of 95 to 100 degrees,” he said. “This will be in effect until 8 p.m. on Monday for Hartford and Tolland Counties. So far it hasn’t been extended until tomorrow.”
DePrest encouraged people to “take it easy” and not work themselves to exhaustion in the heat.
“If you have to work outside, take frequent breaks,” he said. “Drink lots of water and work in the shade if possible. If you start to feel bad, go inside with the air conditioning.”
DePrest also encouraged people to keep an eye on their neighbors, especially elderly neighbors, and their pets.
“Pets are subject to the heat as well,” he said. “Keep your dog inside and give them lots of water.”
Plymouth, Southington (for elementary schools) and St. Paul had early dismissals Monday due to the heat.