Classic summer weather is here on the early side.

Local meteorologists are warning of the chance for severe storms on Friday before an intense heat wave — with it feeling like 100-plus — smothers the region next week.

The potential for scattered severe thunderstorms arrives Friday afternoon and evening across Massachusetts. Locally damaging wind gusts and heavy rain with street flooding are the main concerns.

The greatest risk for severe storms looks to be northwest of the I-95 corridor. Dangerous cloud to ground lightning will also be possible.

“People definitely need to be aware of those hazards,” said Torry Dooley, meteorologist at the National Weather Service’s Boston office.

“Folks trying to enjoy their kids’ baseball game or a round of golf should be aware of the chance for lightning,” he added.

The hail threat looks to be very low, and the tornado threat also appears very low.

Then after a dry weekend with mild days, near-record high temps along with excessive heat and humidity are possible next week.

The significant heat looks to begin Tuesday and continue through Friday — with the most intense heat possibly peaking in the Wednesday-Thursday timeframe.

“It’s going to be hot and steamy,” Dooley said. “There’s no way around it.”

Temps are expected to be in the 90s, and temps could flirt with 100 degrees in some spots. Afternoon heat indices in the 95- to 104-degree range will be possible at times.

Record highs in the middle to upper 90s could be broken.

“This is definitely abnormal for mid to late June, but not unheard of,” Dooley said.

A heat wave by definition is three consecutive days of 90-plus degrees.

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“There has been a strong signal amongst all the model guidance the last several days… for the potential of a highly anomalous event… in this case heat & humidity,” the National Weather Service’s forecast discussion reads. “Near record high temperatures will be possible.”

Forecasters were spreading heat safety tips ahead of next week, including: staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activities, finding shade, taking frequent breaks, never leaving kids or pets unattended in vehicles, and checking up on the elderly.

NWS Boston posted, “Given the potentially dangerous heat anticipated through much of next week… Now is a good time to think ahead.”