Breezy, but warmer forecast

• Breezy and Mild Today
• Wind Advisory for the Mountains
• Springlike Warmth Midweek
• Rain Returns Friday
• Quiet Weekend Ahead

Low clouds and patchy fog will clear through the morning as drier air moves into the region. Temperatures will climb to highs near 60 today, but a tight pressure gradient will make it breezy. In the mountains gusts could exceed 45 mph, which is why a wind advisory is in effect until 3pm. By midweek, we’ll shift into a more springlike pattern. Wednesday will be warm and windy with highs climbing into the mid 60s. Winds will gust as high as 40 mph in the Piedmont and 50 mph in the mountains. The combo of gusty winds and warm dry air could elevate fire weather concerns.

A strong system will approach the region from the west by Friday. Gulf moisture will surge into the region ahead of a cold front bringing widespread rain. Showers will develop Friday morning with the heaviest rain expected in the afternoon and evening. Temperatures will push into the mid to upper 60s making it feel like mid-March instead of late January. Right now, the threat of severe storms remains low due to minimal instability, but gusty winds will be possible and it will be something to monitor through the week.

The rain clears out Saturday morning, leaving us with a quiet and sunny weekend.Highs will stay mild in the upper 50s to lower 60s through Sunday.