Tracking potential drought relief

For the first time since 2008, parts of Mecklenburg County have entered a level 5/5 drought. This comes as Charlotte is in its driest start to a year on record. Water restrictions are increasing, lakes and streams are dropping, and plants are withering as things have gone from bad to worse. So can we expect relief and if so, when?

The good news is a coastal storm will approach our direction from the south overnight Friday into Saturday. This will present the opportunity for rainfall. However, the amounts are up in the air. The latest model data shows this storm making a close pass to Charlotte with a majority of its precipitation shield staying to the south. With that said, rain still looks likely south of I-85, but it will be harder to find north of I-85. Things can still change, but right now this looks more like a light rain or a glancing blow than anything of significance.

As for Friday, expect mostly cloudy skies with temperatures in the low 70s. Rain or shine on Saturday, temperatures will be well below average with highs in the low 60s for those who avoid rain, and upper 50s for areas that see rainfall.

Sunshine returns Sunday area wide with highs near 70 in the Piedmont. The next chance for rain is the middle of next week, with even the chance for thunderstorms!

Tonight: Mostly Clear. Low: 52°. Wind: NE 5

Friday: Mostly cloudy. High 72°. Wind: NE 5

Friday Night: Scattered showers late. Low: 52°. Wind: SW 5-10

Saturday: Rain, mostly south of I-85. High 61°. Wind: NE 10-15