The dew point makes the difference

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Summertime in New England, we expect the heat and humidity. There's one main factor that makes all the difference in how sticky we feel.

Looking at the temperature is a great start to figuring out how comfortable you'll be for the day, but don't forget to check the humidity too.

"I have a lot of yard work that I have to do and it will keep me from cutting the grass and trimming the hedges and things like that IF it's humid…on a nice day like today, I can get out early, get it done and enjoy the day," said Paul Coleman of Springfield.

Many people mistakenly look at the relative humidity percentage to figure out if it's going to be a sticky, uncomfortable day. But you can have high relative humidity and still feel comfortable.

The dew point is a much better indicator for the amount of moisture in the air.

Dew points in the 60s or higher will feel quite sticky. Dew points in the 50s or lower and you'll feel fairly comfortable.

Dew points on Saturday were in the upper 60s and for Nancy Scott who arrived from Scotland that day, it was intolerable.

"We walked out of the airport and we thought ohhhhhhhh, but not today. Feeling quite pleasant today," said Scott from Glasgow.

Dew points dropped into the 40s on Monday, a dry heat that meant more comfort.

"It makes a big difference today. We come out in the fresh air to get this clean air to enjoy. For the children they can run around and not be sweating," said Lorna Buckley of Springfield.