Warm, Storms This Afternoon

Somewhat tricky forecast today as a cold front is approaching the Mississippi River. Ahead of this front, a few low clouds currently blanket the warm sector, but enough sunshine should boost temperatures into the upper 70s early this afternoon. In fact, I think we top out around 77. This will allow the air mass to be unstable enough for showers and thunderstorms to develop along the cold front this afternoon. Given the amount of instability that should be in place, a few storms could be severe with large hail and damaging winds being the primary threat. A secondary issue will be the strong gradient winds that will accompany the front this afternoon. Wind gusts could exceed 35 mph around mid-afternoon! The front will exit the area late this afternoon, but low clouds may hang around through much of the evening before skies clear after midnight. With this in mind, temperatures tomorrow morning will be near 46.

The weather for the weekend looks great. Saturday will be cooler with partly cloudy skies around for much of the day. Highs will be in the mid to upper 60s. Easter Sunday looks great with a few clouds around and highs in the lower 70s. A chance of rain and storms will return late Sunday night. Have a great Easter!