Central PA Summer 2026 Discussion/Obs Thread

[Mount Joy Snowman]

Low of 75.  Let's see how high we can go.  My forecast for tomorrow got knocked down a couple degrees to 101 but remains at 103 for today.  While MDT fell a degree short of tying the record high for yesterday, it did set a new record max min of 77.  We'll have to keep an eye on those max mins in the days ahead, although I think the upcoming days' records are more like 80.  Don't get me started on home station dewpoints haha.  Here is a map of current dews.....

[canderson]

81 was my low. It is already 88 at 8:45 am. 

[Jns2183]

81 was my low. It is already 88 at 8:45 am. 

Somerset County at around 2500' to 3100' feet is the place to be. 85 and 83 degrees respectfully yesterday at the flight 93 memorial and Mt Davis, which makes sense assuming 5.5 degrees per 1000 ft

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[Voyager]

Still an hour from train time, and Tamaqua is full of people trackside already...

[Mount Joy Snowman]

11 minutes ago, Jns2183 said:

Somerset County at around 2500' to 3100' feet is the place to be. 85 and 83 degrees respectfully yesterday at the flight 93 memorial and Mt Davis, which makes sense assuming 5.5 degrees per 1000 ft

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Amen.  I'll be crossing over the Laurels tomorrow, as we head out to a friend's house in Westmoreland County for the 4th.  Always fun watching the temp drop as you climb the big hill and come through the tunnel. 

[Itstrainingtime]

93/75 at 9:50am. Elliott says that west winds will lead to compressional heating this afternoon with dews settling into the 60s. With temps in the 100s the HI will be similar to yesterday. 

[Itstrainingtime]

Elliott also offers this:

The SPC has placed southeastern PA & the LSV in a "slight risk" for #severewx on Fri, but I strongly disagree. The "heat dome" will still be centered over the southern mid-Atlantic States. Beneath it, sinking motion will suppress T-storm formation. North of I-80, different story.

[canderson]

Sunday we have a chance of rain. But like it has for 5 months the close we get the more south that’ll sink. 

[ChescoWx]

Today will be our hottest day with the possibility that many lower spots touch 100 degrees and could approach the record for the day of 103 degrees set way back in 1901 at Coatesville 1SW at 103 degrees. We have not set a record high in the month of July since back on July 24, 2016 when a record of 100 degrees was set at Phoenixville 1E. The heat continues through the weekend but with shower chances steadily increasing by later July 4th through the day on Monday. Temperatures will fall back to near normal by Tuesday and back to below normal temperatures by Wednesday.

[Storm Clouds]

Sorry to derail the excessive heat conversation haha, but I could use some help…

I had a Davis Vantage Pro 2 for 12 years until it crapped out unfortunately. I really enjoyed it, but it was a pain to clean and maintain because of how big and different size parts were on it. I don’t need anything that size again. 

I was looking into weather stations and I especially like how sleek and simple the Tempest weather station (new 2026) model is. The lightning detector is also very attractive and would be cool to have. It’s on sale right now too for $60 off. Anyone have this model? Is it worth it? 
 

https://shop.tempest.earth/products/tempest?currency=USD&country=US&variant=50448868638996&stkn=9ccf78003e23&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_term=&utm_campaign=Shopping-B2C-LowROAS-US&hsa_acc=8776118551&hsa_cam=21297992765&hsa_grp=197465983899&hsa_ad=812073822909&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=pla-2439630180389&hsa_kw=&hsa_mt=&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21297992765&gbraid=0AAAAADhFFvG_EJNyfP3g0dzsNAuUW8POS&gclid=EAIaIQobChMImJiypZy0lQMVlHBHAR3mZS9LEAQYASABEgLqafD_BwE

[canderson]

8 minutes ago, Storm Clouds said:

 

Sorry to derail the excessive heat conversation haha, but I could use some help…

I had a Davis Vantage Pro 2 for 12 years until it crapped out unfortunately. I really enjoyed it, but it was a pain to clean and maintain because of how big and different size parts were on it. I don’t need anything that size again. 

I was looking into weather stations and I especially like how sleek and simple the Tempest weather station (new 2026) model is. The lightning detector is also very attractive and would be cool to have. It’s on sale right now too for $60 off. Anyone have this model? Is it worth it? 
 

https://shop.tempest.earth/products/tempest?currency=USD&country=US&variant=50448868638996&stkn=9ccf78003e23&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_term=&utm_campaign=Shopping-B2C-LowROAS-US&hsa_acc=8776118551&hsa_cam=21297992765&hsa_grp=197465983899&hsa_ad=812073822909&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=pla-2439630180389&hsa_kw=&hsa_mt=&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21297992765&gbraid=0AAAAADhFFvG_EJNyfP3g0dzsNAuUW8POS&gclid=EAIaIQobChMImJiypZy0lQMVlHBHAR3mZS9LEAQYASABEgLqafD_BwE

I thiiiiiink @Voyagerhas a Tempest now 

[Itstrainingtime]

My fully-shaded weather station is now reading 95.4 at 11:20am. 

[canderson]

Just now, Itstrainingtime said:

My fully-shaded weather station is now reading 95.4 at 11:20am. 

Same here. Not as humid as yesterday so in the shade isn’t quite as oppressive yet. 

[Eskimo Joe]

40 minutes ago, Storm Clouds said:

 

Sorry to derail the excessive heat conversation haha, but I could use some help…

I had a Davis Vantage Pro 2 for 12 years until it crapped out unfortunately. I really enjoyed it, but it was a pain to clean and maintain because of how big and different size parts were on it. I don’t need anything that size again. 

I was looking into weather stations and I especially like how sleek and simple the Tempest weather station (new 2026) model is. The lightning detector is also very attractive and would be cool to have. It’s on sale right now too for $60 off. Anyone have this model? Is it worth it? 
 

https://shop.tempest.earth/products/tempest?currency=USD&country=US&variant=50448868638996&stkn=9ccf78003e23&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_term=&utm_campaign=Shopping-B2C-LowROAS-US&hsa_acc=8776118551&hsa_cam=21297992765&hsa_grp=197465983899&hsa_ad=812073822909&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=pla-2439630180389&hsa_kw=&hsa_mt=&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21297992765&gbraid=0AAAAADhFFvG_EJNyfP3g0dzsNAuUW8POS&gclid=EAIaIQobChMImJiypZy0lQMVlHBHAR3mZS9LEAQYASABEgLqafD_BwE

I LOVE my tempest. Get the power pack as well. You won't regret it!

[Superstorm]

Same here. Not as humid as yesterday so in the shade isn’t quite as oppressive yet. 

95 in my shaded tnermometer. 100+ easily today.

100s already in Jersey.


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[Itstrainingtime]

97 approaching noon. Dews are still running between 74-76. Yay summer!

[Superstorm]

97 approaching noon. Dews are still running between 74-76. Yay summer!

Brutal


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[Voyager]

1 hour ago, Storm Clouds said:

 

Sorry to derail the excessive heat conversation haha, but I could use some help…

I had a Davis Vantage Pro 2 for 12 years until it crapped out unfortunately. I really enjoyed it, but it was a pain to clean and maintain because of how big and different size parts were on it. I don’t need anything that size again. 

I was looking into weather stations and I especially like how sleek and simple the Tempest weather station (new 2026) model is. The lightning detector is also very attractive and would be cool to have. It’s on sale right now too for $60 off. Anyone have this model? Is it worth it? 
 

https://shop.tempest.earth/products/tempest?currency=USD&country=US&variant=50448868638996&stkn=9ccf78003e23&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_term=&utm_campaign=Shopping-B2C-LowROAS-US&hsa_acc=8776118551&hsa_cam=21297992765&hsa_grp=197465983899&hsa_ad=812073822909&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=pla-2439630180389&hsa_kw=&hsa_mt=&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21297992765&gbraid=0AAAAADhFFvG_EJNyfP3g0dzsNAuUW8POS&gclid=EAIaIQobChMImJiypZy0lQMVlHBHAR3mZS9LEAQYASABEgLqafD_BwE

As Canderson said, I have the Tempest station. I like it a lot, but with the hepatic rain gauge, you're not going to get accurate winter precipitation readings, as the snowflakes aren't heavy enough to trip the sensors. You'll need a separate gauge to melt and record snow.

[Storm Clouds]

3 minutes ago, Voyager said:

As Canderson said, I have the Tempest station. I like it a lot, but with the hepatic rain gauge, you're not going to get accurate winter precipitation readings, as the snowflakes aren't heavy enough to trip the sensors. You'll need a separate gauge to melt and record snow.

Thanks! I’m not concerned with recording snowfall…measuring snowfall using a ruler or yardstick, yes haha. My old Davis couldn’t record snowfall either. I would forget to empty the gauge and on a warm day it would start recording rain from the snowmelt! 

[canderson]

98 at 12:30. F this. 

[Itstrainingtime]

3 hours ago, Itstrainingtime said:

93/75 at 9:50am. Elliott says that west winds will lead to compressional heating this afternoon with dews settling into the 60s. With temps in the 100s the HI will be similar to yesterday. 

Spot on forecast it appears - I'm now sitting at 99/69.

[Jns2183]

Sorry to derail the excessive heat conversation haha, but I could use some help…

I had a Davis Vantage Pro 2 for 12 years until it crapped out unfortunately. I really enjoyed it, but it was a pain to clean and maintain because of how big and different size parts were on it. I don’t need anything that size again. 

I was looking into weather stations and I especially like how sleek and simple the Tempest weather station (new 2026) model is. The lightning detector is also very attractive and would be cool to have. It’s on sale right now too for $60 off. Anyone have this model? Is it worth it? 
 

https://shop.tempest.earth/products/tempest?currency=USD&country=US&variant=50448868638996&stkn=9ccf78003e23&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_term=&utm_campaign=Shopping-B2C-LowROAS-US&hsa_acc=8776118551&hsa_cam=21297992765&hsa_grp=197465983899&hsa_ad=812073822909&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=pla-2439630180389&hsa_kw=&hsa_mt=&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21297992765&gbraid=0AAAAADhFFvG_EJNyfP3g0dzsNAuUW8POS&gclid=EAIaIQobChMImJiypZy0lQMVlHBHAR3mZS9LEAQYASABEgLqafD_BwE

They are decent quality, it all comes down to what you want from it. Ambient and Ecowitt have same manufacturer . Ive been very happy with Eccowitt because I've able to add a bunch of extra sensors for lightning, specialized tipping bucket rain gauge, soil sensors at multiple depths, air quality measurements for CO2 and 1, 2.5,4, 10 micrometer particles, and wet bulb thermometer as well as route everything for WeeWxa

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[ChescoWx]

Some folks on my FB page were asking about thermometer siting after seeing some reports of 107 in my area while I am 92.6

I posted the below along with some guidance from the NWS. 

Some have questioned if they should allow their thermometer to receive direct sunlight. Per the NWS "Radiation Shield: "Never place a thermometer in direct sunlight" unless you have a louvered radiation shield and/or a fan aspiration unit (see my station photo below) My station does receive direct sunlight but I have both the shield and fan aspiration to ensure my reported temps are not sun inflated. Per the NWS "Use a slotted "beehive" or louvered radiation shield that blocks direct and reflected sunlight while allowing air to flow freely.Surrounding Terrain: The thermometer should sit over natural vegetation, such as grass, rather than over patios, artificial turf, or bare dirt.Clearance from Obstructions: Place the sensor away from structures. The distance between your thermometer and any nearby trees, buildings, or fences should be at least four times the height of the obstruction (e.g., if a tree is 20 feet tall, the sensor should be 80 feet away). Artificial Heat Sources: Keep the sensor at least 100 feet away from paved driveways, parking lots, and large concrete surfaces. Additionally, ensure it is far from artificial heat exhausts, such as furnace vents, chimneys, and air conditioning."

[Eskimo Joe]

Reading, Harrisburg (MDT* & CXY), and Lancaster all hit 100°.

*MDT hitting 100° before 2:00 pm is rare. According to the IEM bot page it's only happened twice in record keeping, both in July of 1991.

[Elim72]

98.2 here in Northern Amish country.

[canderson]

102 at the house 

[Eskimo Joe]

Even Allentown (ABE), Ft. Indiantown (MUI), and Wilkes-Barre (AVP) are making a run at 100°.

EDIT: Ft. Indiantown (MUI) just reported 101° on the 6hr ob!

[Itstrainingtime]

101 here in Maytown.

[Jns2183]

https://cpaweatherlab.com/

Here is my station data

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[Superstorm]

102 but sensor in direct sunlight and not properly shrouded.


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