We have an average  of 7 days in July with temperatures above 90 degrees. One down, six to go - which we should do this week. High temperatures Monday through Wednesday will not only be in the 90's, but likely to surpass 100 degrees in some areas.

Air quality alerts are in effect for the metro areas and in Frederick County, Va. The northern Shenandoah Valley is under a Code Orange (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups) and the metro areas are under a Code Red (Unhealthy) alert for Monday and likely through the middle of the week.

Humidity levels and dewpoints remain low Monday and through most of Tuesday. However, as we move into the second half of the work week, both levels will rise substantially. While it will feel more uncomfortable outside, it does heighten the possibility of an isolated shower or thunderstorm. Heat indicies will be upwards of 105 degrees Tuesday & Wednesday.

When the rain will come is a little uncertain because of several areas of interest in the tropics. Depending on the track of some of these systems, more (or less) rain could make its way to the Valley. This will be something that we track throughout the week, especially with the possibility of another tropical cyclone impacting the oil spill area.

However, whether it's a weak front or an area of tropical moisture, it looks like some sort relief will come this weekend. Let's hope for a good amount of rain!