Triple Digits Possible Today - WQOW TV: Eau Claire, WI NEWS18 News, Weather, and Sports

Western Wisconsin (WQOW) - Thermometers in the Chippewa Valley could reach 100 degrees this afternoon.  A Heat Advisory is in effect from 11 AM to 9 PM today.

"The forecast models have been consistent with bringing us ample sunshine today," said Meteorologist Nick Grunseth.  "With an extremely warm air mass in our area and a combo of the sun, a breeze, and lower afternoon humidity, I wouldn't be surprised to see at least a few ties for record high temperature."

Eau Claire's record high temperature for Monday, July 16 is 102 degrees established in 1936.  That year, a stretch of 100+ degree daytime highs were recorded in the state.  On July 13, 1936, 114 degrees was recorded in Wisconsin Dells, setting the state record high temperature.

The extreme warmth also comes at a time of widespread drought across the continental U.S.  According to the Climate Prediction Center, approximately 60% of the U.S. is considered drought stricken.  An additional 20%, including the Chippewa Valley, is classified as "abnormally dry."

"Unfortunately, not much rain is in the near future," said Grunseth.  "This pattern will not let up anytime soon, and my fear is a large amount of this year's crop will be wiped out, if not already."

Get the latest forecast information by checking out the WQOW Weather Page.