Weather whiplash today

We’ve got a rough morning commute ahead as a strong cold front is crossing the WCCB Charlotte viewing area. A line of showers and storms is accompanying this front and will cross the region over the coming hours. Expect heavy rain and gusty winds as the line of rain works through. The severe threat overall is low, although I wouldn’t rule out a severe storm or 2, especially south of I-85. The main threat would be strong straight-line winds, although a quick spin-up tornado isn’t impossible.

The other big story today is the temperature drop and gusty winds throughout the day. We will start with spring/summer temperatures, and end the day with a return to winter temperatures. Afternoon temperatures will drop into the mid to upper 50s in the Piedmont. Meanwhile, temperatures will drop to the 30s in the High Country with even the chance of a few wet flakes! Accumulations look slim to none, but it will still be impressive given the record highs yesterday! Sunshine returns across the area by this afternoon, although winds will gust past 30 mph for many, so hold onto those hats.

Tomorrow morning will have the chance for our first frost in quite some time as temperatures drop into the mid 30s in the Piedmont, and mid 20s in the High Country. The good news is this cold blast is short-lived as we warm quickly into the 60s on Friday afternoon. We warm further into the 70s by Saturday with plenty of sun to start the weekend! Rain chances creep higher by Sunday before another major temperature drop early next week.

Thursday: AM showers/storms. PM sun. High: 69° (Highs occur in the AM). Wind: Variable 20-30 Gusts: 30+

Thursday Night: Mostly clear. Low: 34°. Wind: N 5-10

Friday: Sunny. High: 64°. Wind: SW 10-20

Friday Night: Mostly clear. Low: 44°. Wind: Calm