Conditions are near normal in spite of oppressive heat throughout much of the week. Consistently high humidities and a brief shower that dropped 0.13 inches of rain Saturday afternoon (also the weekly precipitation total), moderated the effects of a string of days into the 90s. Wildfires in Canada and Minnesota have generated smoke over the whole state and air quality alerts for several days as well as burn bans. Air conditioners are working overtime which is placing extra demands on the electric grid. Trees are beginning to show heat stress but lawns remain relatively lush and green. The first local sweet corn, peaches, and blueberries are showing up in area fruit stands. Outdoor recreation, especially water related, remains vibrant. Lake Michigan water temperatures have been comfortable and a welcome retreat from the heat.