The big story is that it's shaping up to be the hottest day of the week before even more heat and humidity roll in early next week. Expect it to feel downright steamy out there. The heat indices will climb into the mid-90s.

The actual air temperatures will be in the upper 80s to around 90 degrees, and a southwest breeze at 10 to 15 mph will offer only a little relief.

We're looking at the potential for several strong to severe thunderstorms. The main concern is damaging winds, but there’s also a chance for large hail and even an isolated tornado. Later this evening, a strong cold front will push through the state.

Once the front moves through, things will cool off slightly for Friday and Saturday. It’ll still be hot, just not quite as humid.

But don’t get too comfortable, excessive heat is expected to return next week, and we could be looking at a full-blown heat wave. Highs will soar back into the 90s, and the heat index could flirt with 100 degrees.

CLIMATE: Bridgeport, CT normal temperatures: 79/63

THURSDAY: Very hot and humid. Chance of thunderstorms late in the day. High of 88. Feels like middle 90s.

FRIDAY: Mostly sunny. Hot. High of 84.

SATURDAY: Mostly sunny, risk of showers or storms late at night. High of 85.

SUNDAY: Hot & humid again. Partly sunny. High of 90.

MONDAY: Mostly sunny. High of 93.

TUESDAY: Mostly sunny. High of 95.