ALMANAC: Averages: 75F / 56FRecords: 93F (1953) / 43 (1990)

Our hottest weather so far this year is expected this afternoon. High temperatures yesterday were generally in the low to mid 80s, but today temperatures will soar to near 90 degrees. The average temperature this time of the year is only in the mid 70s.

Humidity will increase today and could bring a stray thunderstorm or two after 1 p.m., mainly in the northern and western Hudson Valley. Tonight, will be muggy with temperatures generally near 70 degrees by sunrise on Friday morning.

The chance for rain will increase.

TODAY: Hot & Humid

High temperatures will soar to near 90F with hazy sunshine. An Air Quality alert is in effect for this afternoon.

FRIDAY: Hot, then storms

It's a dry and hot start to the day, but thunderstorms will bubble up in the afternoon. One or 2 storms could bring damaging wind and frequent lightning. Highs in the mid 80s, but with the humidity it will feel like near 90 degrees.

SATURDAY: Less heat, more clouds

Stray showers are expected on Saturday morning with mainly cloudy skies and a lingering rain shower in the afternoon. High temperatures in the low 70s.

SUNDAY: Cloudy with a stray shower

Temperatures remain near or slightly below the average, in the low 70s in the afternoon with peeks of sunshine. A stray shower is possible, mainly in the early morning or late evening.

THE NEXT STORM: A few showers are possible on Monday, but rain is expected for Tuesday with a few thunderstorms possible as well. Expect clear skies for the middle of next week with temperatures heating up into the mid or upper 80s.