Hot But Windy Today, Chance of Thunderstorms Tonight

The National Weather Service on Thursday issued a "Hazardous Weather Outlook" that warns of heat, rip currents and a chance of severe storms tonight.

With temperatures expected to climb into the 90s and humidity returning, much of the mainland is under a heat advisory. Heat index values (a measure of air temperature and humidity) are expected to exceed 100 degrees on Thursday, July 26.

But a gusty south wind is keeping Ocean City much cooler. Sustained wind speed is 15 to 20 mph on Thursday on the island with gusts exceeding 25 mph.

The wind is generating choppy waves and rough surf, and the Weather Service warns of stronger rip currents.

A strong thunderstorm — most likely between 6 p.m. and midnight — could bring hail, gusty winds, heavy rain and frequent lightning, according to a morning update from the Weather Service.

The ocean water temperature is 75 degrees on Thursday, and high tide is at 1:50 p.m.