The National Weather Service claims relief from the heat is in the near future.

The temperatures experienced over the past week are typical of summertime patterns, according to Jim Merrell, lead forecaster/meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Newport. However, the pattern has been a bit stronger and lasted longer than normal. The heat is a result of a hotter-than-normal upper level high pressure positioned over the area, Merrell said.

The NWS issued a heat advisory Saturday afternoon for Sunday, and has since issued advisories for each day of this week. The highest heat index so far, which peaked at 112 degrees, was measured at Washington Warren Airport on Wednesday, according to Merrell. On average, the heat index has been between 100 and 105 degrees. The heat index is measured by looking at a combination of the temperature and humidity, which has been higher than normal, according to Merrell.

Merrell said today and Friday, heat advisories will most likely be issued, as temperatures are projected to reach the mid-90s, with heat indexes reaching 105-109. Saturday and Sunday, the highs will be in the low 90s with heat indexes a few degrees over 100.

The heat will subside early next week when the temperatures drop back down to the upper-80s starting Tuesday, Merrell said.

“It looks like this pattern will continue until early next week,” Merrell said. “It’s not unusual quite a few times a summer to get heat indexes over 100.”

Merrell said until the heat subsides, people should avoid outdoor exposure or at the least, limit exposure. Exposure to heat while outdoors can lead to heat illnesses.

“People need to take care of themselves and be safe and avoid the hottest times of the day, and if you have to be outside, take every precaution,” Merrell said. “Heat is one of the leading killers across the country, and elderly and younger folks can’t handle it as well. Most people who have lived and been in the area for a while understand the heat, but it’s been unusual to have a string of days having a heat advisory in effect.

For more information, visit www.weather.gov/mhx.