INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Every summer is humid in central Indiana, but this year has even exceeded those expectations so far.

Meteorological summer is defined as June through August for easier record-keeping purposes. Since June 1, Indianapolis has had the highest average dew point (66.2 degrees) on records that stretch back to 1931.

A 60-degree dew point is the air you can start to feel. Meanwhile, 70-degree dew points are tropical air that is often found in Florida.

Indy has also spent close to 530 hours with dew points in the 70s since the beginning of June.

Impact of higher dew points and humid air

You have probably noticed a higher electricity bill this summer – you can thank the higher dew points for that.

Higher dew points mean overnight lows will be warmer. That is because the dew point is the direct measure of water vapor in the atmosphere. When there is more water vapor, the cooling rate of the atmosphere slows down, which results in warm low temperatures.

Since June 1, Indianapolis has recorded 50 out of 59 days with above-average overnight lows.

Central Indiana has had plenty of pop-up rain chances this summer. Dew points provide more fuel for showers and storms to form.

Relief is on the way

Here is the good news. Humid air exits Indiana as we head into the start of August.

You can read more on our forecast by visiting our weather blog here.

About The Author

See author's posts