The hot, sticky weather is back with forecasts calling for heat and humidity that will make temperatures feel like the upper 90s to low 100s in the next few days.

Across the Lehigh Valley, most places were expected to stay below the 90-degree mark today, according to Courtney Travis, a senior meteorologist with AccuWeather.

Today’s highs are expected to reach the upper 80s, but added that with the dew points peaking up near the upper 60s, it’s going to make it feel quite humid outside.

She said the humidity really picks up Thursday, with temperatures for Lehighton falling just below 90.

“We’re also watching for the potential for some gusty thunderstorms for the afternoon moving into the evening, some could bring heavy drenching downpours, which could bring heavy rainfall,” Travis said. “There also could be some gusty winds with that as well, which should keep those temperatures capped near 90.”

Though not too concerned about any severe weather on Friday, Travis said there is the potential for that heat to build, with high temperatures around 93 to 94 degrees, as it’s expected to be the hottest day of the next several.

Travis said there will still be some lingering heat on Saturday, with potential thunderstorms. Temperatures should cap right near 90 and the upper 80s.

She said that while the Allentown area has the potential for a heat wave Thursday through Saturday, Lehighton figures to just miss it.

Travis cautioned that with any thunderstorms, or if you hear thunder, to seek shelter; limit activities and minimize the amount of time spent outside in the midafternoon or early evening; stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water; and use sun protection, such as sunscreen protected clothing and hats as well, even staying in the shade.

“This heat does not look like it’s going to be long lived,” she said, adding that on Sunday, temperatures are expected to return to 80 or the low 80s for highs, which would be about five degrees below the historical average.

Normally this time of year, the high temperatures are around 86; with today 87, we’re around where we should be,” she said. “It’s not uncommon for us to see temperatures in the 90s. It’s just above normal, and with the humidity, it will feel much hotter than most of the summer has.”

The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency said people should take the heat seriously.

“According to the National Weather Service, heat is the most prevalent weather-related cause of death in the United States,” said Director Randy Padfield. “It’s especially dangerous for children and older adults, those working outdoors, and urban areas where heat can build up due to asphalt and concrete and nighttime cooling is minimal. In particular, it is never safe to leave people or pets inside cars even if windows are cracked open. Temperatures can quickly rise to dangerous levels, leading to dozens of avoidable deaths each year. Keep cars locked even when parked in a driveway to keep children from unknowingly climbing inside.”

“We ask all Pennsylvanians to be a good neighbor and check on people who may have limited mobility or may not have a way to escape the heat,” said Acting Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen. “Remember to wear appropriate clothing, stay hydrated, exercise safely, and look out for children, older adults and pets.”

“Older adults are at higher risk for heat-related illness or worse. They also may not have access to fans, air conditioners, or may have limited mobility to escape extreme heat. So it’s important that all of us check on our older family members, neighbors, and friends to make sure they stay cool and hydrated,” said Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich. “Pennsylvania’s Area Agencies on Aging are a great resource for older adults to learn about senior community centers acting as cooling stations in their neighborhood and other supports that may be available. Seniors can also check with their local municipality to find out if there are libraries, churches or other facilities that may be offering opportunities to keep cool.”

Older adults can visit the Department of Aging’s website to find their local Area Agency on Aging.