Bam!  Within one day we’re going from cool easterly winds to very warm southerly winds.  Highs lately have been in the 70s, but look at this temperature trend for the next few days. Aye Caramba! 

The average is that white line (83 degrees).  If Saturday verifies, then it will be the hottest day since (drumroll……) July 22nd 2008.  It was 95 degrees at Norfolk International on that date.  We’ve had lower 90s even recently, but we haven’t been above 94 since that date.  There’s a lot of talk on the internet and a lot of stories about how the last couple of years have been generally cooler across the country.  Especially the Midwest.  We’ve definitely seen a cool down, and I wonder if the politicians are taking notice.  Remember though it’s only 1 maybe 1 and a half years of cooler weather.  If we follow the trend of the late 70s, then we’ll probably have one or two more cold years and then the heat will resume.  We are in a lull in sunspots which are theorized to affect Earth’s temperatures.  But there are many other factors that control the weather.  So we’ll see what happens.  Either way make sure you’re A.C. is in good working order for the next couple of days.  We’re not used to the heat.

 Also, somebody commented on here about lightning.  It does cause thunder.  Not the other way around.  Light travels much faster than sound.  So you see lightning first, then hear the thunder.  If it’s really close, then they may be almost at the exact same time.  I’ve experienced that a couple of times. 

Along with the heat and humidity. We’ll see a chance for some strong storms later this afternoon.  Strong winds and possible hail will be the main threats.  If you’re heading to the beach, then there is also a moderate threat for rip currents. 

Meteorologist: Jeremy Wheeler