Record Heat, Severe Storms Target MA This Week: How Sizzling Will It Get?

Two days of record-breaking heat — with a growing chance of severe storms — are on the way across Massachusetts as a chilly spring turns to summer with temperatures soaring well into the 90s.

The National Weather Service issued a Heat Advisory beginning at 11 a.m. on Tuesday and lasting through 8 p.m. on Wednesday for the entire state, other except for the Berkshires, the South Coast, Cape Cod and the Islands.

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Hot temperatures and a moderate degree of humidity — with little relief Tuesday night — may cause heat illnesses. Early-season heat can be especially dangerous because people may not yet be acclimated to higher temperatures, making it important to prepare, stay hydrated, and check on others before and during hot weather.

"As we approach the summer months, we want to make sure Massachusetts residents are informed about rising heat early and have time to take the proper precautions to stay safe in hot weather – that means keeping hydrated, limiting strenuous activity and finding a cool place to stay indoors if possible," Gov. Maura Healey said. "We encourage residents and visitors alike to cool off at one of the 14 splash pads that DCR has opened ahead of schedule to offer early heat relief or at a nearby cooling center."

Almost everywhere in the Bay State will get in on the scorcher for Tuesday as high temperatures soar well into the 90s. The NWS is forecasting a high of 96 degrees in Boston — which would crush the previous record for May 19 of 90 degrees.

A strong southwest wind will usher in the heat with gusts to 25 mph throughout the day.

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With the heat and increasing humidity also comes the chance of thunderstorms, which could be severe. The NWS is forecasting between 3 and 5 p.m. as the time storms are mostly likely to pop up in the interior of the state and move toward the coast.

Tuesday night will be a sultry one with lows not making it out of the 70s and rising humidity making it feel sticky for one of the first times this year.

“With a Heat Advisory impacting much of the state, we urge everyone to take precautions," Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Director Dawn Brantley said. "If possible, during the hottest part of the day stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces, limit strenuous activity and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. For those who must be outside, stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in the shade, and wear lightweight clothing.

"Extreme heat can be dangerous — even deadly — especially for older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions and individuals without access to cooling or shelter. Don’t underestimate how quickly high temperatures can affect your health."

Wednesday will be another hot one as high temperatures again make it into the 90s for most, with a forecast high of 92 in Boston. Wednesday will also feature a better chance of damaging storms as a cold front arrives in the afternoon.

The NWS said showers and storms will arrive after 4 p.m. with a 60 percent chance of rain.

Temperatures will fall sharply after the cold front passes, with a low of 55 on Wednesday night, and highs back into the 60s under sunny skies for Thursday.

Both Thursday and Friday are looking pleasant before a potentially unsettled and even cooler Memorial Day weekend.

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