MISSOULA — Even though September has begun, today will feel like a summer day in western Montana.

To start, heavy fog is expected, especially in the Bitterroot Valley and Granite County. An air quality advisory was issued yesterday as far as Lake County and may be re-issued later this morning.

Those heading outside for Labor Day should take precautions against the smog by limiting time outside, but also be wary of the heat today! Temperatures will soar into the upper 80s and 90s this afternoon.

The heat could lead to the development of thunderstorms later in the afternoon. Instability — which thunderstorms need — will be accompanied by a cold front and gusts of 20 mph to 30 mph, coming from Canada. The front should produce some precipitation between 4:00 and 8:00 p.m.

At the moment the radar only shows showers and not many thunderstorms, but storms can develop quickly as they have in the past month.

Watch the skies today and if you hear thunder, go indoors. The chance of severe storms is low, but all thunderstorms can bring high winds, hail, lightning and heavy rain.

Tomorrow will see more showers and cloudy skies, but hopefully the front will clear some of the haze today. Happy Labor Day and stay safe!