Bethlehem Live Weather Camera

As the summer solstice arrives this week, the long-range outlook depicts a pattern shift that will go from seasonal to sizzler in a hurry, forecasters warn.

The Lehigh Valley has endured nearly non-stop weekend rain since April, marking one of the region’s wettest springs. Despite high rainfall totals, flooding hasn't been a concern.

A stalled front could bring rain, clouds, and cooler temperatures to the Lehigh Valley this weekend, impacting major events like Allentown’s Blues, Brews & Barbeque and Bethlehem’s Juneteenth celebration.

Temperatures climbed well into the upper 80s this week in the Lehigh Valley, teasing that classic summer milestone — the first 90-degree day of the year.

Smoke drifted over the Great Lakes on Monday night and pushed east, the National Weather Service said, with forecasters warning it will result in smokier skies for the Lehigh Valley and large swaths of the eastern U.S. on Tuesday.

The National Weather Service said the haze could be more apparent toward the late afternoon and evening hours, particularly at sunset.

Overall, 31 of the region’s 35 major climate sites were wetter than normal, with 22 of them experiencing one of their 20 wettest May 1-15 periods. Allentown took the top spot, experiencing its wettest May 1-15 ever.

Right on the heels of Friday’s warm front, the Lehigh Valley will see a cold front move in Saturday. Rounds of storms are expected both days, forecasters say.

The tornado that touched down Tuesday evening in Bangor has been categorized by the National Weather Service, according to a statement issued Wednesday. The agency estimated peak winds reached 80 to 90 mph with a path length of about 1.50 miles and a maximum path width of 100 yards.

“An isolated tornado is not entirely out of the question," the National Weather Service said of Saturday's threat. But non-English speakers may not be aware of warnings for severe weather.

Excessive rainfall during drought can trigger flash flooding, forecasters say. The concern is that prolonged dry conditions can make the soil hydrophobic, meaning it repels water.

If Mother Nature has anything to say about it, this could be an abbreviated peak bloom for the cherry blossoms in the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas.