Stage Five, running from Epernay to Montargis through northern and centralparts of France, takes place Thursday. Although the stage is relatively flat,riders will face a weather-related challenge in the form of heat andhumidity.A ridge of high pressure over central Europe will result in plenty ofsunshine throughout the day. Temperatures in the afternoon will top out near 89F, or nearly 32 C. In addition to the warm air, rising humidity levels willforce riders to manage their water and food consumption more efficiently.
The warm and humid conditions will continue on Friday as the riders enterStage Six, which runs from Montargis to Gueugnon. Temperatures will remain near90 F, or in the low 30s C.
As the riders enter the higher elevations in the Alps this weekend, coolerconditions are expected with a few showers and perhaps a thunderstorm. Highswill be in the low 80s F, or upper 20s C.
By Eric Wanenchak, AccuWeather.com Meteorologist
