New models forecast end to heat wave

The period of Tuesday, July 15, through Saturday, July 19, 1986 saw a heat wave plague the southern and eastern portions of the Central Region. Temperatures in the 90's were quite common, even in Michigan, especially toward the end of the week. The heat wave peaked out over central Kansas on Friday, July 18, when Russell and Salina had 104° and 103°F, respectively. An indication that relief was in sight came on Tuesday, when the MRF 120- hr MSL pressure forecast (see Fig. la) showed a low in southeast Kansas with a high building down over Wyoming and Colorado by 00Z Sunday, July 20. This was clear evidence of cooler air on the way. Subsequent MRF runs continued to show cooling.