Upcoming Weather: Enjoy Today, Prepare for a Stormy Friday

Today features excellent weather with highs near 80°F and clear skies. A significant storm is forecasted for Friday, bringing high winds, severe thunderstorm threats, and potential snowfall by Sunday. Stay aware of rapid weather changes and health this weekend.
Greetings to all weather enthusiasts,
Today’s weather is notably pleasant, with temperatures nearing 80°F under full sunshine and a gentle breeze. This evening, viewers will have an excellent opportunity to observe the total lunar eclipse against a clear sky, with nighttime temperatures ranging from 55°F to 60°F accompanied by an increasing breeze from the southeast.
As we transition into Friday, the weather takes a dramatic turn due to a strong storm system impacting the middle to eastern United States. Kansas City is currently under High Wind and Fire Weather Watches, with potential upgrades to formal warnings. Wind gusts are expected from the south and southwest, reaching between 40 to 60 mph, which may lead to power outages.
Moreover, a Fire Weather Watch is in effect as the region experiences dry winter brush conditions. This increases the risk of fires that can ignite easily and spread swiftly, even without recent rainfall.
In terms of severe weather risks, the northeast section of the area is categorized with a 2 or 3 out of 5 severe weather threat, while eastern Missouri escalates to a level 4 out of 5. Tornado risks are notably pronounced in these higher threat levels, while the southwestern portion remains at a minimal risk.
On Friday morning, the storm system enters the Plains, bearing a low central pressure comparable to a low-end Category 2 hurricane. Wind gusts will rise to 50-60 mph as it approaches from the west, although precipitation east of the Rockies is currently absent.
By 3 PM, thunderstorms are expected to develop near the state line and will likely escalate into severe conditions within an hour as they advance northeast at around 60 mph. Continuing into the evening, severe thunderstorms are predicted to gain strength, particularly posing risks of damaging winds and tornadoes.
As night falls at 10 PM, the storm will reach Milwaukee and Chicago, resulting in windy conditions and dropping temperatures into the 40s. Wind gusts will persist at 30-50 mph as the storm moves.
Saturday will witness a decline in wind intensity under a predominantly cloudy sky and temperatures in the low 50s. Meanwhile, a blizzard is anticipated to develop Friday night in the eastern Dakotas, subsequently shifting into Canada, while a new outbreak of severe thunderstorms is expected in the Southeast United States.
Rainfall in the region from Friday to Sunday is projected to be minimal, with totals not exceeding 0.25 inches, while snowfall could accumulate between 3 to 6 inches from Sioux City, IA, northward.
Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend and good health!
In summary, today offers delightful weather, ideal for watching the lunar eclipse. However, an impending storm system brings concerning weather conditions for Friday, including high winds and severe thunderstorms across regions, with specific areas under heightened tornado risks. Minimal rainfall is anticipated, juxtaposed with notable snowfall in some parts. Staying vigilant and prepared is advisable as these weather patterns unfold.
Original Source: www.kshb.com