More Storms Sunday for RI, Relief from Heat Begins Next Week

RHODE ISLAND—Rhode Islanders are being warned of excessive heat and the chance of yet more powerful thunderstorms on Sunday, which could end up being the hottest day of the summer.

Relief from the brutal heat and humidity will come this upcoming workweek. Until then, Rhode Islanders are urged to be mindful of sweltering temperatures Sunday, especially inland, where it will feel above 100 degrees with extreme humidity.

The National Weather Service indicates that there will be a threat of thunderstorms on Sunday, beginning most likely later in the afternoon and early evening.

Most towns have experienced a few encounters with powerful storms kicked up during the recent period of heat and humidity. Late Saturday night, a band of storms that spanned the entire length of Rhode Island sped overhead shortly before midnight, scaring children awake with thunderous booms.

Some of the storms expected later Sunday could again include damaging winds and torrential rainfall. They also will be marked by frequent lightning strikes, which have caused damage and started fires across southern New England for days.

Relief from this weather system should begin on Monday as daytime high temperatures settle from the mid 90s to the upper 80s inland. Temperatures by midweek should reach much more pleasant daytime highs in the mid 80s and though it’s early, next weekend could be spectacular with highs in the lower 80s and significantly less humidity.