The Weekend Weather Forecast: Showers and Thunderstorms Ahead

As the weekend approaches, many are making plans to enjoy some time outdoors or catch up on errands. However, the weather will play a significant role in shaping those plans. Expect a mix of showers and thunderstorms, especially from Thursday afternoon through Sunday morning. Understanding the timing and intensity of these weather events can help you stay prepared and make the most of your weekend.

Clouds gathering before a thunderstorm

Thursday Afternoon and Night: Showers and Thunderstorms Begin

Thursday will start mostly cloudy with temperatures reaching a high near 46°F. Showers are likely mainly after 4 p.m., with a 60% chance of precipitation. The east wind will blow steadily between 6 to 10 mph, which may bring a chill to the air. Rainfall amounts are expected to be light, less than a tenth of an inch, but keep an eye out for localized heavier showers.

As night falls, the chance of showers and thunderstorms continues, mainly after 1 a.m., with a 50% chance of precipitation. Temperatures will drop slightly to around 45°F, and the east wind will pick up to 10 to 14 mph. Thunderstorms could bring heavier rainfall in some spots, so it’s wise to secure outdoor items and be cautious if driving late.

Friday: A Day of Changing Weather and Gusty Winds

Friday’s weather will be more dynamic. Early in the morning, there is a chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11 a.m., followed by a chance of showers between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The afternoon will see another chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Despite the unsettled weather, the day will be partly sunny with a high near 74°F, offering a brief warm-up.

South winds will be strong, ranging from 13 to 15 mph with gusts up to 26 mph. These gusts could make outdoor activities more challenging, especially for those planning to be on the water or in open areas. Rainfall amounts will generally remain light, but thunderstorms could bring localized heavier rain.

Friday night will be mostly cloudy with a low around 43°F and lighter west winds between 3 to 8 mph. This will provide a cooler, calmer night after the active day.

Rain showers on a city street during early evening

Saturday and Sunday: Showers Continue with a Chance of Snow Late Sunday Night

Saturday will bring more showers, likely mainly after 2 p.m., with a 60% chance of precipitation. The day will be mostly cloudy and cooler, with a high near 67°F. Rain will continue into Saturday night, increasing to a 90% chance of showers and a low around 47°F. This steady rain could affect outdoor plans, so consider indoor alternatives or waterproof gear.

Sunday starts with showers mainly before 8 a.m., with an 80% chance of precipitation and a high near 55°F. The rain will taper off as the day progresses, but the weather remains unsettled. Sunday night brings a shift in conditions: a chance of rain showers between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m., then a chance of snow showers after 2 a.m. Temperatures will drop to around 33°F, and the chance of precipitation is 40%. This transition to snow showers signals the arrival of colder air and the start of a more wintry pattern.

Early Next Week: Cooler with Snow Showers and Clearing Skies

Monday will have a chance of snow showers before 2 p.m., with mostly cloudy skies and a high near 44°F. The snow showers may be light but could create slick spots on roads and sidewalks. Monday night will be mostly cloudy with a low near 29°F, so expect chilly conditions.

Tuesday offers a break with mostly sunny skies and a high near 40°F. The night will be mostly clear with a low around 22°F, making it one of the colder nights of the week. By Wednesday, the sun returns fully with a high near 49°F, providing a more pleasant day to look forward to.

Snow-covered trees in a neighborhood early morning

Tips to Prepare for the Weekend Weather

• Plan indoor activities for the times when showers and thunderstorms are most likely, especially Thursday evening through Sunday morning.

• Check your outdoor gear: waterproof jackets, umbrellas, and sturdy shoes will help you stay comfortable.

• Secure loose items outside to prevent damage from gusty winds on Friday.

• Drive carefully during rain and possible snow showers, especially Sunday night and Monday morning.

• Monitor weather updates as conditions can change quickly, particularly with thunderstorms and the transition to snow.

  
  

By staying informed and prepared, you can navigate the weekend’s weather safely and still enjoy your plans.