So far the annual Covered Bridge Celebration has enjoyed two days of lovely weather, and according to the National Weather Service that trend will continue through the remainder of the festival.
“I hope the visitors like sunshine, because there is going to be plenty of it,” said NWS Meteorologist Andy Pritchett.
Today, the forecast temperature is expected to peak in the mid-80s with “clear sunny skies” overhead according to Pritchett.
The low temperature tonight is expected to be in the mid-60s, but temperatures will remain pleasant during the evening hours, Pritchett said, which will allow festival attendees can enjoy the outdoor concert in the Covered Bridge Park.
The forecast for Saturday looks much the same according to Pritchett.
“It’s just a rinse and repeat of Friday with a little bit more heat,” he said. “You will see a high around 90 degrees or even into the low 90s will be possible there. It would not surprise me to see the thermometer there creep up to 91 or 92 degrees.”
With sunny skies and high temperatures in the forecast, Pritchett offered some advice for those planning to spend their day at the festival.
“The UV index is going to be extreme. Make sure you put sun screen on the kids and bring some for you as well, especially if you are going to be outside for an extended period of time,” he said. “Certainly heat exhaustion and dehydration will be a concern with the warm temperatures, especially on Saturday. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water.”
Saturday evening, the temperatures are expected to remain warm throughout the evening for the grand finale concert lineup and fireworks display.
“Even as late as 9 or 10 p.m. temperatures will still be in the high 70s,” Pritchett said, adding the overnight low on Saturday was expected to only drop to the mid-60s.
According to the National Weather Service, heat is the number one weather-related killer. The NWS offers the following advice on ways to protect yourself from the heat and sunburn while still enjoying the hot temperatures and festival activities.
• Drink plenty of water. Avoid drinking caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, which may actually cause, or worse, dehydration.
• Wear clothing that is lightweight, loose fitting and light colored.
• Wear sunscreen. Sunburns reduce the body’s ability to cool off.
• Do not leave children, elderly persons or pets unattended in vehicles.