Hope is Around the Corner

Good afternoon folks! The above average temps and mostly dry setup will continue Thursday into the middle of next week, but the models provide some hope that a pattern change is around the corner. A possible upper level trough may swing through or nearby the region late next week, disrupting the upper level ridge over the Southeast, bringing an end to the above average temps. This is not set in stone but fingers crossed the models continue to trend in this direction.

For the near and mid term time-frame we expect a weak and slightly moisture starved front to cross the region Thursday, bringing with it isolated shower and thunderstorm chances. This rain opportunity is mainly focused along the ridgelines so keep up with your watering schedule, but the passing clouds are likely to keep temps from rising too high. The valleys will experience temps in the low 80's tomorrow, while the ridgelines above 5500' enjoy temps in the mid 60's, all under a mix of sun and clouds. All moisture clears out Thursday night and temps settle into the mid 50's - low 60's depending upon elevation.

Friday and Saturday keep alive a chance for a shower or two along the ridgelines in the Smokies, the Cowee mountains and Great Balsams. Elsewhere mostly sunny skies will continue to dominate the region, with sunshine extending into Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. Temps will reach the upper 60's across the highest ridgelines, while the valleys continue to climb to the low - mid 80's each afternoon, peaking on Sunday pertaining to above average temps. Overnight lows settle into the low - upper 50's each night under mostly clear skies.

Fingers crossed the models are onto something in regards to a possible pattern change late next week. We'll give the models more time to hone in on the details and with this in mind, our next discussion will come out late Saturday afternoon.