Heat Index in Triple Digits

South central Wisconsin could get its first significant rains in a month starting Friday, but the rain isn't expected to wash away the heat and humidity smothering the region.
However, the heat and humidity aren't forecast to be as brutal as earlier this week.
The National Weather Service said morning storms are possible in the Madison area on Friday, with rainfall amounts between 0.10 and 0.25 of an inch, and higher amounts possible from thunderstorms.
Any rain would be welcome now — the last significant rainfall in Madison, 1.36 inches, fell on June 21, according to Weather Service statistics.
Highs on Friday should be in the upper 80s with high humidity to boot.
Skies should clear Friday afternoon but clouds are expected to move in again at night, bringing a good chance for rain and storms through the weekend.
27 Storm Track meteorologist Evan Hutchinson said it'll be partly sunny, warm and humid on Saturday with scattered late day storms and a high of 87, and partly sunny, warm and humid on Sunday with morning storms and a high of 89.
Both the temperature and humidity should drop back slightly on Monday, but it'll only be a one-day respite.
The Weather Service said it'll be sunny with a high of 82 on Monday, before another low pressure system moves into the region and pushes temperatures and humidity up again.
Tuesday should be mostly sunny with a chance for late day storms and a high of 86.
Wednesday, Thursday and next Friday should be carbon copies of each other, with partly sunny skies, high humidity and temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s, and a slight chance for storms each afternoon.
Expect a high of 95 with a heat index value up to 101 and a low near 71. Storms are more likely before 8 a.m. and after 2 p.m., and the chance for rain and thunderstorms continues throughout the weekend.


High temperatures this weekend are expected to be in the low to mid 90s and lows in the low 70s.


The Hazardous Weather Outlook in effect for some time continues, warning that cloud-to-ground lightning, strong winds and heavy rain are possible.


The Code Orange Air Quality Alert in effect for another day warns the air could be unhealthy for sensitive groups. Children, those sensitive to ozone and people with heart or lung disease should limit exertion outdoors during late afternoon and early evening, when ozone concentrations are the highest.