Triple digits in the Oklahoma forecast

By News9 Meteorologist Carrie Rose.

Triple-digit temperatures lurk on the horizon as widespread rain chances in the state diminish. 

A steady warming trend will continue this weekend across the state, ushering in 100 degree highs.  Tuesday looks to be the hottest day over the largest area, covering much of northwest, west-central, and southern Oklahoma. 

Highs in Oklahoma City will remain in the mid to upper 90s.  Oklahoma City has yet to reach 100 degrees this summer, with the highest temperature only climbing to 96 degrees in May, June and July.  The next several days will likely be the hottest so far this year for Oklahoma City.

Elsewhere in the country, high pressure remained in place over much of the East, keeping winds light and pollution stagnant.  Air Quality Alerts were in effect for many metro areas, with Heat Advisories adding to the summertime misery for New York City and much of New Jersey.  Afternoon highs will be in the upper 90s, with heat index values climbing to the low 100s Saturday. 

In the desert southwest, the hottest temperatures since early this month are expected this weekend.  Highs in Southern California and Arizona will rise to the low 110s, with overnight "cooling" only dropping to the upper 80s and low 90s.

For more information on how to stay safe in the heat, click here.