Hot, stormy and sticky — that’s the theme for Connecticut’s weather this week, as we move deeper into July with severe thunderstorm chances, poor air quality and intense humidity already making their presence felt.
First Alert Weather Day for Monday and Tuesday in Connecticut
Monday, July 7, has already been flagged as a First Alert Weather Day by WFSB 3 TV meteorologists, with dew points climbing into the oppressive range, pushing the humidity to uncomfortable levels. A few downpours and isolated storms have been possible through the day, but no severe weather has been expected so far.
Alongside the moisture in the air, there’s an Air Quality Alert in place for Litchfield and Fairfield Counties from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., due to elevated ground-level ozone levels. This could make outdoor activities challenging for those with asthma or other respiratory issues.
Tuesday brings the risk of heavy storms and sweltering heat
On Tuesday, expect patchy fog in the early morning hours, but it won’t last long. The main story is the dangerous heat and suffocating humidity, with heat index values rising into the 95–100°F range (35–38°C). These values will be driven by actual temperatures near 88–90°F (31–32°C) combined with sticky southwest winds and saturated air.
As the day progresses, a cold front approaches from the west, triggering scattered thunderstorms across the state. According to WFSB meteorologists, some of these afternoon and evening storms could turn severe, especially due to the abundant tropical moisture lingering from the remnants of Tropical Storm Chantal, which has shifted east of New England.
Connecticut currently sits under a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) for severe weather, which may include strong wind gusts, heavy downpours, and localized flooding, particularly in areas with poor drainage. This is why Tuesday has also been declared a First Alert Weather Day.
Northern Connecticut: Higher temps, stronger storm potential
In northern Connecticut, the forecast is slightly hotter and more volatile. Tuesday’s high is expected to reach 90°F (32°C), with a heat index up to 97°F (36°C). Storm activity will ramp up after 2:00 p.m., with a 60% chance of strong thunderstorms capable of producing heavy rain and lightning. Evening storms may continue into the early overnight hours, bringing another round of possible flooding and thunderstorm gusts.
Wednesday into Friday: Storm chances persist, humidity surges back
Though the humidity may ease slightly by Wednesday, storm chances continue through midweek. Expect patchy showers and a few afternoon storms, with highs around 83–84°F (28–29°C) in both northern and southern Connecticut.
Thursday remains unsettled, with a mix of clouds, showers, and the possibility of thunderstorms after 2:00 p.m. Temperatures will hover around 79°F (26°C), and while it may not feel as oppressive as earlier in the week, the air will still be sticky.
By Friday, the oppressive humidity returns, setting the stage for widespread storms, particularly in the afternoon and evening. Even though the chance of precipitation drops slightly to 30%, the airmass will remain volatile, and additional strong storms are not off the table.
Weekend preview: A brief break on Saturday, then more rain
Looking ahead, Saturday currently appears to offer a break in the stormy pattern, with dry conditions and more comfortable humidity likely. But Sunday brings another round of showers and storms, as unsettled weather continues into the second week of July across Connecticut.
Stay tuned for continuous updates, especially as conditions evolve with the progression of the cold front and residual tropical moisture.
