WLRN

Drought conditions are improving across many areas in Florida, but temperatures are about to soar, and chances of storms become more limited this weekend. Also, Saharan dust could be making the skies hazy.

A stationary front increases rain coverage across parts of Florida through the end of this week, while a high-pressure system builds just in time for the weekend, bringing temperatures near record heat or breaking records.

Florida officially entered astronomical summer on June 21, marking the longest day of the year.

On Thursday, temperatures were already hot across much of the Florida Peninsula, with roughly two-thirds of the state under a Heat Advisory. Not only were air temperatures high, but the combination of heat and humidity pushed heat index values as high as 110°F in some locations.

Tropical storm Arthur was short lived, lasting only about 6 hours. But forecasters are watching for increased flooding rain and storm chances across parts of Florida later this week.

Arthur became the first named system of the season, but in less than 6 hours after being named, it moved over land in Texas. The flash flood threat continues for the next couple of days across the Southeast.

Extremely hot temperatures and a late-afternoon storm make it hard for firefighters to contain the Quarry 2 fire burning in the Everglades, producing hazy skies, poor air quality, and burnt smells across South Florida.

Heavy rains threaten the Gulf Coast states, from Southeast Texas through the Deep South. Heavy rains could affect parts of the western Florida Panhandle.

Storm chances ramp up this afternoon across South Florida. Lightning could delay the first soccer match played in South Florida.

Florida is known for its sunshine and heat, but the state’s hottest air temperature is actually lower than nearly every other state.