Weather

Cooler and drier air from the interior Northeast and Ohio Valley is expected to move to the New England Coast and part of the Mid-Atlantic Coast on Friday. A slight drop in humidity is expected in the Mid-Atlantic, as clouds, showers and thunderstorms extend from the Mid-Atlantic to parts of the Central Appalachians and Ohio Valley.

Hot and humid air will persist over the South Central and Southeast states. Moisture from the Gulf of Mexico will increase the chance of showers and thunderstorms later in the weekend.

Severe thunderstorms in the upper Mississippi Valley and parts of the Northern and Central Plains will increase the risk of flash flooding. Strong gusts, hail and frequent lightning strikes may occur.

In the West, most areas can expect sunshine and dry conditions. Temperatures will be near or slightly lower than average.

In the tropical Atlantic, a storm system will build near the Cabo Verde islands, and a new storm may surface near Florida by next week.

Focus: Tropical Storm Watch in Gulf

There is a heightened risk for a tropical storm developing next week in the Gulf of Mexico as a strong wave enters the region. Warm waters will create favorable storm conditions, though winds may be too strong for significant development.