AccuWeather: Early haze, air improves

AccuWeather forecast for NYC, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut

ByEyewitness News WABC logo

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Conditions will gradually improve during the day on Friday as cleaner air moves in from north to south.

While a smoky haze may linger in the morning, especially south of New York City, skies are expected to become noticeably clearer by afternoon. The combination of healthier air, low humidity and sunshine could make for a pleasant end to the week.

The improvement will be temporary, however. Humidity is expected to increase Friday night, bringing another surge of smoke into the region on Saturday. While smoke levels may not reach their overnight peak, some haze is likely to return.

The weekend forecast remains unsettled. Saturday will feature considerable cloud cover, along with off-and-on showers and thunderstorms, with the greatest chance of storms during the afternoon and nighttime hours. Some storms may produce heavy downpours and localized flooding.

Sunday looks significantly better. Any lingering morning shower should be confined mainly to areas east of the city before skies begin to clear. Sunshine will return, humidity levels will drop and air quality is expected to remain good. Temperatures will climb into the low to mid-80s, creating favorable conditions for outdoor activities, including the World Cup final.

The pleasant weather continues into Monday before showers and thunderstorms attempt to make a comeback Tuesday, primarily during the second half of the day and into Tuesday night.

By Wednesday and Thursday, conditions are expected to improve once again with a return to dry and comfortable weather.