Hazy, smoky skies persist this morning under cloudy skies. Air quality is expected to improve today, as haze and smoke clear up this afternoon. Temperatures will be in the low to mid-80s, with lower humidity throughout the day.

Hazy, smoky skies will return once more as a shift in winds will bring the wildfire smoke back into the region. Air Quality could be lowered tonight into Saturday as the smoke lingers in the region. Expect skies have a steady increase in cloud cover and temperatures in the mid-60s.

Major changes will take place on Saturday as a very moist air mass is expected to bring rounds of storms by the afternoon. Early in the day, there is uncertainty in storm/rain chances; however, this will be the best period of time to run any errands or take care of outdoor tasks. By the afternoon, strong and severe storms threaten the entire region.

The Storm Prediction Center has placed a slight risk for scattered strong and severe storms, producing damaging wind gusts from 50-60 mph or higher, torrential downpours, large hail, and a tornado is possible, especially in the western areas of the region (Orange County). Stay weather aware throughout the afternoon and evening when these storms may fire off. In addition, there is a scattered risk for flash flooding in Westchester and Rockland Counties from the heavy rainfall expected, while the rest of the region could see more isolated flash flooding events.

The storm system is expected to clear out by Saturday night. High pressure will then build behind it, leading to a beautiful Sunday on tap. Less humidity, dry, and sunny during the day. Great for any outdoor activities from start to finish.