HAGERSTOWN — Summer goes through phases that can be a little deceiving. Cooler temperatures emerge but then quickly disappear again. The Almanack shares a unique look at these subtle changes in its THE 12 SEASONS OF THE MID-ATLANTIC FOR 2026 section.
The slow build of heat
The early parts of the season started out mild, as predicted, but the temperatures have started to rise.
Summer: “We are not talking the dates between the summer solstice and vernal equinox, but the stretch of warm, but not super-hot, record-breaking weather. For 2026, those dates will be June 1 to July 20.”
Summer heat rise turn up
If the pattern of weather continues as predicted, the end of the month could see dangerous temperatures. Be sure to know the location of the cooling and water stations throughout the region.
Hell’s Front Porch: “This stretch of time will be the most atrocious days of the summer with a combination of dangerous heat and humidity. Air conditioners will be running full-throttle between July 21 and Aug. 30.”
Don’t be deceived by the cool
After the hot days of late July and August, cooler temperatures will be welcomed, but don’t expect them to last according to the Almanack.
False Fall: This is the period following the hottest days of the year when you think Mother Nature has turned the corner toward the autumn season, but in reality, she has more tricks up her sleeve. For 2026, False Fall will occur between Sept. 9 and Oct. 3.
Summer creeps back in for a last rush of heat
Second Summer: “Yes, this is the point in the season when we are ready for changing leaves, pumpkin spice coffee and cuddling up by the campfire at night, BUT then a second dose of heat hits when we least expect it. These dates for 2026 will be Oct. 4 and Oct. 13.”
Summer heat could come around again late in September according to The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack. LocalNews1 has partnered with The Almanack to bring you a story every Monday taken from current or past editions.
First published in 1797, it’s the second oldest almanac in the United States and has been in continuous publication for 230 years and is the only almanac in the United States still published by the founders’ direct descendants.
Readers can obtain their own copies of the Almanack at the link above.
