Muggy, Warm, & Strong Thunderstorms

Good Morning Folks! We are continuing to enjoy the summer like pattern across the region, although the severity of storms as of late have been extreme in some instances. The weekend and next week outlook has heavy rainfall, hail, and strong winds as the main threats, with no specific outbreak expected like what occurred on Monday and Wednesday of last week. This go around we will simply see thunderstorms pop up in the traditional fashion, meaning most all of SW NC is in play, so be sure to keep an eye to the sky and have backup plans if you're heading outdoors.

The other factor alongside shower and storm activity will be the high humidity, as temperatures remain at or slightly above normal Saturday through the middle of next week; low 70's ridgelines to the mid - upper 80's along the valley floor. Humidity levels peak Sunday and again Wednesday as we deal with southeasterly flow across the region, turning south by the middle of next week. Although temps will be near normal, tack on a handful of degrees in terms of heat index and be sure to stay hydrated out there.

Saturday through Monday features pop up showers and thunderstorms each afternoon, closer to sunset and the heaviest rainfall amounts are likely to occur Sunday afternoon as available moisture levels peak. Hail, strong winds from downburst, and heavy rain are the main threats for our region, which could result in localized flash flooding, so be sure to check the radar as you head out each afternoon and evening. Temps Saturday push into the upper 60's along the ridgelines to the mid 80's across the valleys, settling back into the low - upper 60's each night. This range of temps stays the same for the most part till Tuesday of next week.

By Tuesday temps will be able to push into the low 70's - upper 80's depending upon elevation, as southerly flow ramps up ahead of a passing cold front to our north. Moisture levels will have calmed down a bit, however there will still be plenty of available moisture and reduced capping to allow for a handful of thunderstorms each afternoon. This pattern holds till at least Thursday and beyond that time frame we will bow out as the models consider many different outcomes.