RI Weather Forecast: How Hot It Will Be This Weekend

Stock up on water and suntan lotion, get an early parking spot at your favorite beach, and buy the kids some sparklers. It may or may not technically become a heat wave for the entire state, but it's going to be nice and hot beginning today and stretching through at least the Fourth of July.

Friday will be one of the cooler days over the next several, with this weekend being certifiable beach weather in Southern New England. Temperatures will be in the high 80s and 90s as we head into Independence Day, with ample opportunity to heat up in Providence or cool down at Block Island.

Heat indices, which are essentially the "real-feel" temperatures of the summer, could get as high as 105 degrees, forecasters warned.

The Fourth of July is expected to be in the mid-to-high 80s, but some of that humidity could give way to scattered showers and thunderstorms from the afternoon into the evening. That forecast will take shape over the next 72 hours.

Heat waves are generally defined around here as three or more days with the temperature above 90 degrees. While the heat indices should reach that, some of the high temperatures over the next few days could get stuck in the mid-to-high 80s. While Providence will bake in the 90s, Newport should "chill" in the low 80s.

Here's an estimate of the high temperatures over the next few days around Southern New England, courtesy of the National Weather Service:

While the summer warmth is welcome with winter's dreariness still fresh in our minds, this kind of prolonged heat can be dangerous for some.

Here are some safety tips when the heat gets to be too much, courtesy of the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency:

• Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle. Even with the windows cracked open, interior temperatures can rise almost 20°F within 10 minutes.
• Slow down and avoid strenuous activity.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Light colors reflect heat and sunlight, and help maintain normal body temperature.
• Drink plenty of water — even if you are not thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine. If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink, ask how much you should drink during hot weather.
• Eat well-balanced, light, regular meals.
• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. Do not leave pets outside for extended periods of time.
• If you must be outdoors, limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening hours. Try to rest often in shady areas so your body temperature will have a chance to recover. Use sunscreen with a high SPF and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
• If you do not have air conditioning, stay on your lowest floor, out of the sun. Use fans to stay cool and avoid using your stove and oven. Consider spending time in air-conditioned public spaces, such as schools, libraries, theaters, and other community facilities.