Basin thunderstorms possible Thursday and Friday

MOSES LAKE — One more day of hot weather will be followed by a gradual temperature drop down into the mid-80s by next week, but there is the chance of thunderstorms between today and those cooler temperatures.  

“We are expecting more widespread thunderstorms,” said Andy Brown, meteorologist with the National Weather Service office in Spokane. “There’s a higher probability along the mountains, but everywhere has the possibility, especially (Thursday).” 

Cooler and wetter air is working its way into the region, which is unusual for late July and early August.  

“We don’t get a lot of thunderstorms this time of year. We don’t get a lot of rain,” Brown said. 

The Columbia Basin is forecast to have about a 25% chance of thunderstorms today, with a 34% chance in Wenatchee. Because the incoming air has more moisture, any thunderstorms that appear over the region should carry some rain with them. In some areas, that may mean flash flooding, he said, although that risk is pretty low in the Columbia Basin. 

It's still going to be hot today, with a forecast high of 101, with the chance of thunderstorms increasing during the afternoon and evening. The NWS included some tips for avoiding heat-related illness on hot days. 

People should drink plenty of water, wear lightweight clothing and a hat and sunglasses. People are also urged to try and stay in places where there’s air conditioning and wear sunscreen if they have to be outside. They should avoid strenuous outside activity between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. If people have to be outside, they should take breaks in the shade. People should check on friends, families and neighbors who are at higher risk, and take precautions for their pets. 

Temperatures are forecast to start trending down Friday, with a forecast high of 85 to 91, and into the mid-80s by early next week.  

“A different air mass,” Brown said. “It’s an area of low pressure that will bring in some slightly cooler temperatures.”