Beautiful End To The Work Week, But Fog Concerns This Weekend
By Geoff Bansen
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- As we end the first full week of May, the Delaware Valley stays dry and unseasonably warm. Highs will average 10 degrees above normal under mostly sunny skies.
This morning, however, will be a tale of two skies; while most inland towns are waking up to bountiful blue sky, residents along the shore are finding lots of grey as they remain socked in with heavy fog. A Dense Fog Advisory is posted in these locations for the next few hours. The fog will gradually burn off as the day progresses, but it is a sign of things to come as we head into the weekend.
For a busy and exciting weekend that will feature both the Dad Vail Regatta and the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, things aren't looking bad; we expect generally partly sunny skies and more above average warmth. Subtropical Storm Ana, an early bird to the 2015 hurricane season, will stay well to the south. But as can commonly occur this time of year, a fog bank and low stratus clouds will move inland each of the next several nights as the wind flow shifts southeasterly. Think of it as living along the California coast - night and morning fog that burns off with the daytime sun, then returns again at night. The question becomes how extensive will it be, and how long will it take to burn away. It could keep much of the shore in the 60's to near 70, while inland it soars into the 80's. Sometimes, these fog banks will just hang at the beach right along the shoreline all afternoon then pounce inland as the sun sets. Keep this in mind if you are thinking of the shore for your weekend plans.
Another important stat is the dearth of recent rainfall. After most of April was, naturally, filled with showers, the last two weeks have yielded only a trace of rain. This, coupled with low afternoon humidity and warm temperatures, will elevate the risk for wildfires. With one forest fire of note already burning as I write this blog, please use caution with any open flames today. The lack of rain will also keep the pollen count high right through the weekend.
One last note: an Air Quality Alert is effect Friday for much of central and southern New Jersey. Air will be unhealthy for sensitive groups.
Have a great weekend!