Weather outlook: Storms, heat, Saharan dust could be on tap for weekend
A rising heat index, Saharan dust and an increased risk of rip currents are in store for Palm Beach County this weekend.
Humidity and the heat index will increase Saturday and Sunday. The high is forecast to be 86 both days, but the heat index will drive feels-like temperatures into the upper 90s, or close to 100, said Robert Molleda, the warning coordination meteorologist for the National Weather Service. Peak temperatures usually occur from midday to midafternoon.
The heat index is what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature.
There is a risk of heat exhaustion with prolonged exposure, the weather service said, so people should limit outdoor activities, especially during the midday and afternoon hours, on Saturday and Sunday.
Meanwhile, some Saharan dust may move into South Florida late Friday through the weekend. It is uncertain how much dust will make its way here, Molleda said, but the sky likely will be hazier Saturday and Sunday.
"Instead of classic blue, it will look kind of milky," he said.
Also, there will be an increased risk of rip currents at beaches Saturday, Sunday and Monday as easterly winds pick up. There have been two drownings related to rip currents at Palm Beach beaches this year.
Hot tips: Staying safe as temps climb
* Limit outdoor activities
* Drink plenty of water
* Wear light clothing
* Wear sunscreen
* Work outdoors early or very late in the day
Source: weather.gov/heat
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Daily News: West Palm Beach weather: Storms, heat, Saharan dust, rip currents
