Weather Update: Pleasant Thursday, Severe Storms Looming Friday

Today features clear skies and warm temperatures, with highs around 80°F. In contrast, Friday heralds a severe weather outlook, including high winds and thunderstorms, particularly impacting the eastern parts of Missouri. The weekend will see a decrease in winds along with minimal rainfall and snowfall in certain areas, highlighting the variability in weather conditions.

Today, we are experiencing pleasant weather conditions with highs near 80°F, characterized by 100% sunshine and light winds. Tonight presents an opportunity to view the total lunar eclipse under clear skies, with increasing breezes from the southeast at 15-25 mph, and lows around 55°-60°.

Looking ahead to Friday, significant weather conditions are anticipated. High Wind and Fire Weather Watches have been issued, affecting Kansas City and regions to the north. The wind can gust from the south and southwest at 40-60 mph, which may lead to power outages. The Fire Weather Watch indicates an elevated risk of fire due to dry winter brush.

Friday’s severe weather outlook shows a risk rating of 2 to 3 out of 5 in the northeast area, with the eastern part of Missouri facing a level 4 risk. Areas under risk levels 3 and 4 have a heightened tornado threat, while the southwest part of the viewing area remains at risk level 0.

In the morning, a strong storm system will be moving into the Plains, exhibiting a central pressure akin to a low-end category 2 hurricane. Wind gusts of 50-60 mph are expected, although no precipitation will occur east of the Rockies initially. By 3 PM, thunderstorms will begin to form near the state line, intensifying into severe storms approximately one hour after they develop.

By 5 PM, the thunderstorms will have increased significantly and could produce damaging winds and tornadoes, particularly in regions rated between level 3 and 4 risk. As night approaches, we will see severe thunderstorms progressing towards Milwaukee and Chicago, with temperatures dropping into the 40s and persistent gusty winds.

On Saturday, winds will decrease under mostly cloudy skies with highs in the low 50s. A blizzard is expected to develop Friday night in the eastern Dakotas and Minnesota, moving into Canada. Additionally, there will be a new round of severe thunderstorms stretching from the southeastern USA to the eastern Midwest.

The rainfall forecast for Friday through Sunday indicates minimal precipitation, with only a trace to 0.25 inches expected. The heaviest rainfall will occur east of the Mississippi River and north of Omaha, transitioning into snow. Snowfall amounts of approximately 3 to 6 inches are anticipated from Sioux City, IA, and points north.

In summary, while today offers favorable weather conducive to lunar observations, Friday will present a challenging weather scenario with high winds and potential severe thunderstorms threatening the region. It is prudent to stay informed and prepared for the changing conditions over the weekend.

In conclusion, today features ideal weather conditions, in sharp contrast to the severe weather forecast for Friday. With risks of high winds and fire hazards, it is essential for residents to stay vigilant. The impending storms may lead to significant weather events, including damaging winds and potential tornadoes, necessitating caution. As the weekend progresses, lower temperatures and minimal precipitation will continue to shape the weather experience.

Original Source: www.kshb.com