WEEKEND WEATHER: Heat index may reach 111 in Marion County as storms roll in

Saga CommunicationsDark storm clouds loom over a field in Marion County as strong weekend storms and high heat index values are forecast. Kathy Dugan/352today

OCALA, FL (352today.com) – A Heat Advisory is in effect for Ocala and Marion County from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, with heat index values expected to reach up to 111 degrees. The National Weather Service warns that the combination of high temperatures and humidity can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for those spending extended time outdoors.

In addition to the dangerous heat, scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected throughout the weekend, with some storms possibly becoming strong. Stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak heat, and keep an eye on changing weather conditions.

Here’s your day-by-day outlook from the National Weather Service.

Friday: A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 109. Calm wind becoming southwest 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon.

Friday Night: A 10% chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7 p.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. West wind around 6 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Saturday: A slight chance of showers, then showers and thunderstorms likely after 11 a.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Calm wind becoming southwest 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Saturday Night: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 8 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 75. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Sunday: A chance of showers, then showers and thunderstorms after 11 a.m. High near 92. Chance of precipitation is 90%.

Sunday Night: Showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8 p.m. Low around 74. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

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