The Storm Prediction Center has placed Northern New Jersey, Southeast New York, Western Connecticut and Western Long Island (including the New York City metro area) in a "Moderate Risk" for severe thunderstorms this afternoon and evening. A Moderate Risk is relatively rare in this part of the country, and details an area where severe weather may be widespread and significant. In this specific case, the Storm Prediction Center is calling for "A potentially widespread severe damaging wind event across the Northeast U.S today"..with the potential for "very large hail initially, followed by potential for damaging winds as the storm organize into bows and shift southeast". In our area, the threat for damaging winds is significant later this evening. This is especially true in our Central and Northern zones, near the better shear for organized thunderstorms, hence the issuance of the Moderate Risk. Please keep alert for any watches or warnings. Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@nymetrowx) for real-time updates as we get information and relay it to you immediately. This blog post will be updated throughout the day. Also note that we have included the heat-related blog post from last night below, as the temperatures continue to soar into the upper 90's. Featured image: Storm Prediction Center outlook placing portions of our area in a rare 'Moderate Risk' for severe thunderstorms this afternoon and evening, and the rest of the area in a 'Slight Risk' for severe thunderstorms.


Meanwhile, on the subject of widespread significant heat (which is fueling atmospheric instability), much of New Jersey and the New York City area sizzled through the warmest day of the year (thus far) on Wednesday, which will likely only be outdone hours from now this afternoon. Record high temperatures were set, especially in New Jersey where temperatures soared into the upper 90's to near 100. The thermometer struck 99 degrees at Newark airport Wednesday afternoon, breaking an old record high for the day which was 97 degrees set back in 1999. In addition, Teterboro airport set it's own record with a 100 degree reading. Heat indices (more like the real-feel temperature) were recorded over 100 degrees for several hours in some spots. The heat has forced several local area schools (specifically in Northeast New Jersey) to schedule an early dismissal on Thursday, due to the forecasted scorching heat. Temperatures on Thursday are already in the mid to upper 90's, and are forecast to reach 100 degrees in spots, with heat indices exceeding 105 degrees for more than two hours. Featured image (left): NAM model forecasting 98 degree or higher temperatures on Thursday afternoon for the New York City area as well as Northeast New Jersey. 

Also, take note that an 'Oppressive Heat Alert' is still in effect for the entire area through later Thursday evening. As noted by the National Weather Service "take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water. Heat stroke is an emergency, if you experience symptoms or witness an occurrence immediately call 9-1-1." A harsh reminder that the heat is a serious threat, despite how wonderful the warmth may feel for some.