Seasonable Temperatures….for now

The long overdue thaw is in full swing across the area. High temperatures every day since Saturday have been above forty (40) degrees with generally quiet weather conditions. The generally bright sunny skies have led to a steady melt of the area’s snow pack. As of today most areas have only a few inches of snow remaining, reduced considerably from the nearly two (2) feet some areas had only a week ago. A more active wet weather pattern is in store for the weekend before the weather improves and ultimately cools down next week.

Currently cool but seasonable high pressure is in control of the weather over the area. High temperatures today rose into the upper forties (40’s) after early morning lows a few degrees below freezing. The storm system for the weekend is currently organizing over the Northwestern Gulf of Mexico.

On Friday the system will begin to move northeast towards the area. Rain will spread into the region from the south and should be falling over most areas in the afternoon. High temperatures will rise to near fifty (50) degrees before the rain begins. Rain will continue overnight Friday and it will be steady and maybe heavy at times. Those living near area rivers should stay alert as flooding due to ice jams will be a good possibility.

The rain will continue most of the day on Saturday as high temperatures reach near fifty (50) degrees before cooler air filters in later in the day. Overnight there is a chance for snow showers before the precipitation pulls out. Conditions on Sunday will be dry and cooler as high temperatures remain in the lower forties (40’s)

On Monday the area will see a decent rebound in temperatures ahead of the next system. High temperatures look to rise well in to the 50’s before a cold front moves through overnight.

Cool high pressure will be in control of the weather on Tuesday and Wednesday providing seasonably cool conditions. High temperatures will be in the lower to middle forties (40’s) both days.

Looking ahead the current seasonable weather looks to go on yet another hiatus beginning late next week. The ridge of high pressure over Western North America will strengthen considerably allowing a trough of low pressure to dig to its east. This will increase the chances for below normal temperatures starting at the end of next week and lasting for at least a week. Winter is not quite over but hopefully the lack of snow cover will not be conducive to a repeat of the extreme cold experienced at the beginning of the month.