As we head towards the long weekend, the weather forecast brings a mix of showers, storms, and fluctuating temperatures. With a subjective rating of 5/10, today sees the retreat of intense heat but the arrival of scattered showers. The best chance for showers and storms is expected later today, and possibly again on Saturday afternoon and evening. While there are shower chances on Friday and Sunday, they are predicted to be isolated, allowing plenty of outdoor time. Labor Day finally looks to be a dry and enjoyable day for some outdoor grilling.

Thursday presents a welcome relief from yesterday's record-setting heat, with highs in the 80s under partly sunny skies. However, the humidity persists with dew points near 70, as a weak front fails to dislodge the muggy air. Showers and storms are likely to develop in the afternoon and evening, providing much-needed relief to parched gardens. The winds remain light from the east, providing a sense of calmness. Confidence in this forecast is rated as medium-high.

Moving into the night, showers and storms are expected to persist but become more isolated as the evening progresses. Rainfall amounts will vary across the region, averaging around 0.5 inches. The eastward wind continues to blow lightly, and temperatures dip into the 60s, offering a relatively mild night. The confidence in this forecast also remains medium-high.

Friday brings a rare sight of mostly cloudy skies during the summer months, keeping temperatures in the comfortable 70s range. While a few scattered showers are possible at any time during the day, they are expected to be brief and light. Winds continue to be light to moderate from the east, shaping the weather conditions. The forecast's confidence level remains medium.

Looking to Friday night, clouds persist but any showers in the region should be light and isolated. Overnight temperatures range from the mid-60s to lower 70s. The confidence in this forecast remains medium-high.

As Saturday arrives, clouds begin to diminish, and the weather warms back up into the mid- to upper 80s. However, the humidity remains uncomfortably high, and a cool front approaching in the evening is expected to fuel showers and storms that could last well into the night. Overnight lows are forecasted to range from the mid-60s to lower 70s. Confidence in this forecast is rated as low-medium.

Sunday's forecast brings a glimmer of hope as clouds retreat, allowing for a partly sunny day with highs in the 80s. However, with the cool front lingering nearby, there is still a chance of a few showers popping up in the late afternoon and evening, particularly in the south and east of Washington. These showers are expected to be brief and scattered. Overnight lows are anticipated to be in the 60s. The confidence in this forecast remains at a medium level.

The highly awaited Labor Day on Monday promises to be a winner, as the reinforcing cool and dry air slowly makes its way into the region. Mainly sunny skies will push temperatures into the low-to-mid 80s, with a noticeable decrease in humidity. Confidence in this forecast is rated as medium.

For those planning to hit the beaches in Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware, the forecast predicts highs in the 80s and lows in the upper 60s to lower 70s. Light east winds accompanied by partly sunny skies create favorable conditions. Showers and storms are possible each afternoon and evening, except on Labor Day. Therefore, beachgoers are advised to make the most of the clear days.