A heat wave sweeping across the state this week isn’t likely to break until at least Thursday when a rainy storm front is expected to move in.
Daytime highs for much of the state will reach the high 80s and low 90s Monday through Wednesday this week according to the National Weather Service, with high heat indexes making outdoor activity strenuous and potentially dangerous.
The scorching temperatures also come during a long stretch without significant rainfall, placing much of the state squarely under moderate to high fire danger, as drought conditions continue to develop.
Monday afternoon will see inland temperatures in the mid 90s, with the exception of Katahdin and the most coastal regions. Down East and coastal Maine will see temperatures in the 80s through Monday afternoon.
Conditions will continue to feel humid and sticky, with the real-feel slightly above the projected air temperatures.
Significant rainfall that would curb drought development isn’t predicted at this time, with scattered showers and thunderstorms developing Wednesday and Thursday. Temperatures will dip slightly toward the end of the week, with daytime highs reaching the upper 80s.
Nighttime temperatures are expected to remain in the mid to upper 60s throughout most of the week, dropping into the mid-50s throughout the evening Thursday.
Officials recommend drinking plenty of fluids, staying out of the sun and in air-conditioned spaces, and rescheduling any outdoor activities. They also urge people not to leave pets or children in unattended vehicles, as car interiors can reach deadly temperatures in just a few minutes.
