Cloud cover brings relief from the heat on Friday

July started with a high temperature of just 78.

What followed? Ten consecutive days of high temps of 89 or higher, including two days at 95. Those numbers come from the Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport station. In neighborhoods where trees are scarce and in the vast parking lots of grocery stores and big box chains, those temperatures were even higher.

High humidity generated two days with a heat index of 100 degrees or more.

Friday, the clouds came in. In most places the high temperature won't crest 80. It's rare we look forward to a cloudy Friday; but valley residents will likely welcome this one. There are chances of rain and even thunderstorms, but no severe weather warnings.

The weekend? Look for the heat to re-establish itself on Saturday.