New York City stands on the edge of a dramatic weather shift, with forecasters warning of severe thunderstorms by Thursday followed closely by a blistering heat wave next week. The National Weather Service has placed parts of the region under a heightened alert, pointing to the risk of damaging winds, heavy rain, and even isolated tornadoes. As the skies darken, the air is expected to heat up, bringing dangerous temperatures into the high 90s. From storm alerts to heat warnings, New Yorkers are urged to stay weather-aware.

STORY HIGHLIGHTS:

• Severe thunderstorms possible Thursday with damaging winds and heavy rainfall

• NWS places NYC under Level 2 (Slight Risk) for severe weather

• Wednesday brings moderate rain and thunderstorm chances

• An isolated tornado or waterspout cannot be ruled out

• Heat wave expected Sunday through Thursday with temps in the upper 90s

• Heat-related advisories likely to be issued by the NWS

New Yorkers may want to keep both umbrellas and fans at the ready this week, as a dramatic shift in weather is set to impact the region. The upcoming forecast paints a picture of turbulent skies, marked by potentially severe thunderstorms, followed closely by an intense burst of summer heat. In what appears to be a textbook case of Mother Nature’s unpredictability, the Tri-State area will first face fast-moving storms before entering a period of potentially dangerous heat starting early next week.

While June is often known for its occasional thunderstorms and building heat, the next several days will bring a rather concentrated burst of both. The National Weather Service (NWS) has placed New York City and surrounding areas under a Level 2 out of 5 risk category for severe weather—what they term as a “Slight Risk.” This classification means there is growing confidence that certain areas will experience damaging winds, hail, and even the possibility of an isolated tornado.

The storm sequence is expected to start midweek. On Wednesday, a series of showers and possible thunderstorms may develop in the afternoon hours, particularly between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. As evening approaches, rain chances rise, with the possibility of thunder continuing past 5 p.m. Conditions will remain largely cloudy throughout the day, with temperatures peaking around 77°F. Rainfall could persist into the evening and night hours, tapering off slightly after 11 p.m., with lows settling around 72°F.

However, Thursday appears to be the more volatile day in the short term. Starting in the afternoon, after 2 p.m., forecasters are warning of a high likelihood of thunderstorms—some of which could turn severe. These storms could bring damaging wind gusts in excess of 58 mph, capable of snapping tree limbs, damaging property, and downing power lines. Along with that, heavy rainfall may lead to ponding on roads and minor flooding in low-lying urban areas. Thunderstorms could persist into the night, with conditions remaining unstable until about 2 a.m. when gradual clearing may begin. The high temperature during the day will climb to around 87°F, offering a humid and storm-fueled atmosphere.

FOX 5 NY meteorologist Audrey Puente noted that while Wednesday may bring its share of rumbles, the potential for stronger, more impactful weather exists on Thursday. The NWS echoed that sentiment, suggesting that alerts such as a severe thunderstorm watch could be issued depending on how conditions evolve through the day.

As if the turbulent skies weren’t enough, New Yorkers must also prepare for what could be the city’s first major heat wave of the season. Forecasters are pointing to a stretch between Sunday and Thursday of next week as the prime window for oppressive heat. While it remains uncertain whether temperatures will crack the triple-digit mark, current projections show highs regularly approaching the upper 90s. When factoring in humidity—which will likely remain elevated—conditions could feel even more stifling.

Although 100°F days in June are rare in New York City—having occurred only three times in recorded history—the upcoming heat event could come close. In anticipation of this, the NWS is expected to issue a range of heat-related alerts in the coming days. These may include heat advisories, extreme heat watches, or even warnings, depending on just how intense and long-lasting the hot spell becomes.

With severe weather on one end and intense heat on the other, this week is shaping up to test the city’s weather resilience. Residents are advised to monitor updates closely from the National Weather Service and local news outlets, avoid outdoor exposure during peak storm or heat periods, and prepare for the possibility of power outages or flooded streets.

From umbrellas to AC units, New Yorkers may need the full weather toolkit in the coming days.