Friday, March 30, 2007

A Calm Weekend On Tap For Us

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

Severe thunderstorms developed and moved through the Big Country for most of the day. Several counties in the viewing area were under a tornado warning. In fact, at one point we had eight counties under a tornado warning because of three separtate thunderstorms that were capable of producing tornadoes. So far, we have only had one confirmation of a tornado that was on the ground. It was a brief touchdown 2 miles south of Carbon in Eastland county. We had reports of hail ranging from pea size to tennis ball size. The tennis ball size hail occurred in Cross Plains. Most of the area saw quite a bit of rain today. Rainfall totals for most of the viewing area were somewhere between 1 inch and 4.5 inches. This led to flash flood warnings for some counties. Abilene Regional Airport received 1.49" which is a record rainfall for this date.

The weekend looks pleasant. We will likely begin with mostly cloudy skies Saturday morning and possibly some patchy fog in a few locations. The clouds are expected to decrease through the day so by late afternoon it should be mostly sunny. Highs tomorrow look to be in the low to mid 70s. Sunday should be warmer with highs in the low 80s under mostly sunny skies.

Partly cloudy skies will likely return on Monday with highs remaining in the low 80s.

A cold front is expected to move through the area Tuesday. There is a 20% chance for showers and thunderstorms with the front. Highs should be in the upper 70s under partly cloudy skies.

Wednesday through next Friday will be cooler thanks to the cold front. Highs look to be in the upper 60s to around 70.

Have a super Saturday!

Thursday, March 29, 2007

More Rain Likely For Friday

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had showers and thunderstorms move through the western half of the area this morning. The eastern half had rain late this morning and during the afternoon. Rainfall totals were mainly around a quarter to half an inch with some isolated higher amounts. Highs today ranged from the upper 60s to mid 70s.

Showers and thunderstorms are likely tomorrow as early as sunrise. There is a potential for storms to reach severe limits. The main threats will be large hail and damaging winds, but isolated tornadoes can't be completely ruled out. Heavy rain is also possible tomorrow so there is a potential for flash flooding. There is a Flash Flood Watch in effect for Comanche, Eastland, and Stephens counties through Friday evening. Our chance for rain tomorrow is 80%. The reason our chance for rain is so high is due to of all the factors that will be in play Friday. First, we have a frontal boundary that will be stalled in our area. Second, an upper level low currently over Colorado will be sending some disturbances our way through the day. Third, a surface low is expected to develop to our southwest in the Big Bend region and move over us. Moisture should be back in place by tomorrow morning so all of the ingredients needed for rain look to be there. Rainfall amounts in the Big Country are expected to reach 1 to 2 inches with isolated higher totals. Highs tomorrow look to be in the mid to upper 60s.

We will likely begin Saturday with mostly cloudy skies, but by the afternoon it should be mostly sunny. Sunday will also likely be mostly sunny, so it looks to be a pleasant weekend. Highs are expected to reach the mid 70s to low 80s.

Monday should be dry with partly cloudy skies and highs in the low 80s.

We have another chance for rain on Tuesday with the arrival of a cold front. That chance is 20% for now, but could increase as we get closer to that time period.

Have a fantastic Friday!

A Stormy Morning

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly,

It was a stormy early morning across the Big Country. Around 2 am the activity arrived in the area. We have had some strong storms with pea sized hail, wind gusts around 45 mph and locally heavy rainfall with an inch falling in an hour.

The biggest threat this morning will still be the heavy rainfall causing some ponding on the roadways and localized flooding on the morning commute. We will continue to see the line of storms push through the area this morning and the best activity for continued thunderstorms will be in our eastern counties. This activity is associated with the cold front that passed through western Texas and will be stalling in the Big Country. Our western counties should be seeing some clearing and sunshine this afternoon but this will also aid in instability and allow for the possibility of stronger storms this evening and into the overnight. We will see a 60 percent chance of storms throughout the area today and into the overnight with a disturbance making its way through the watch area. Temperatures will be in the lower 70’s with overnight lows in the mid 50’s. Winds will keep moisture in the area coming out of the south 10-20 mph.

Tomorrow we will continue the chance for thunderstorms with moisture still in place, the front stalled out, and upper level low just off to the Northwest. Temperatures will drop into the upper 60’s. Again there is the possibility for severe activity and we will keep you updated with any watches or warnings.

By Saturday we should push the upper level low out diminishing the rain chances and bringing back the sunshine with temperatures getting back into the 70’s for the rest of the weekend.

Have a great day and be safe!

Wednesday, March 28, 2007

Strong To Severe Thunderstorms Possible

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was a warm, windy, and dry day across the Big Country. We had partly to mostly cloudy skies. With some sunshine, we were able to have highs in the mid 70s to low 80s. Winds were sustained from the south and southeast at 20 to 30 mph with gusts as high as 35 to 40 mph.

Strong to severe thunderstorms are possible in our area tonight as activity that is forming along the dryline makes its way towards our area. A cold front is expected to overtake the dryline and push the storms east towards our direction. There is a Tornado Watch for Knox and Stonewall counties until midnight. Coke, Fisher, Mitchell, Nolan, and Scurry counties are under a Tornado Watch until 4 a.m. Thursday morning. The main threats for the thunderstorms in our area will be large hail and damaging winds, but isolated tornadoes can't be ruled out. Lows tonight should be in the upper 50s to low 60s.

The showers and thunderstorms are expected to end during the morning tomorrow. It looks like we may get a break from the rain for a little while before more showers and storms develop tomorrow evening and into Friday morning. The reason we will continue to see a chance for rain Thursday and Friday is due to an upper level low which remains to our west. It will slowly move eastward over the next couple of days. The cold front mentioned earlier is not expected to completely move through the Big Country until Friday. The low will not clear our region until late Friday or early Saturday morning. It is possible for us to see some severe thunderstorms Thursday and Friday. At this time, the Storm Prediction Center has the majority of our area under a slight risk on those days. Highs Thursday look to be in the low 70s. Friday we should be in the mid to upper 60s.

The weekend looks pleasant right now. We may see mostly cloudy skies early on Saturday before mostly sunny skies take over in the afternoon. Mostly sunny skies are expected on Sunday. Highs should be in the mid 70s to low 80s for the end of the week.

Another cold front looks to move into the area on Tuesday bringing us a 20% chance for showers and thunderstorms.

Have a terrific Thursday!

Tuesday, March 27, 2007

Tuesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We started with mostly cloudy skies and some fog across the area this morning, but by the afternoon it was mostly sunny to sunny. This allowed us to warm up into the mid 70s to low 80s for highs.

Another upper level trough is building in the western portions of the country. This will move east towards us tomorrow which will push the dryline into the area. We could see strong to severe thunderstorms during the late afternoon and evening hours tomorrow. The main threats will be large hail and damaging winds, but a few isolated tornadoes can't be completely ruled out. All of the Big Country is under a slight risk for severe weather according to the Storm Prediction Center. Our chance for rain is 30%. Highs for Wednesday are expected to reach the upper 70s to low 80s.

A cold front will move through the area on Thursday continuing our chance for showers and thunderstorms. In fact, that chance is higher at 50%. With mostly cloudy skies, rain and cooler air moving in, highs should only be in the upper 60s to low 70s.

The slow moving trough may not be completely through our region until late Friday. There is a 30% chance for more precipitation that day with highs in the mid to upper 60s.

The weekend and early next week look dry and pleasant for now with highs ranging from the low 70s to low 80s during that time period.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Tuesday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly

We saw plenty of rainfall around the Big Country with Abilene picking up almost .80 of an inch. Into the overnight there were a few lingering showers. We could see an isolated shower this morning however most of the activity is being pushed out with the upper level low. Temperatures on the morning commute are staying mainly in the mid 50’s.

Throughout the morning we will be decreasing clouds and by the afternoon should see a mix of sun and clouds. With the sunshine and Southwesterly winds temperatures will hit the 80’s. Overnight we will continue partly cloudy skies with temperatures just around 60 degrees.

An upper level trough is forming out to the west, bringing back the thunderstorm chance with a dryline making its way through area Wednesday and cold front Thursday. There is the possibility of severe weather with this next set up so we will be keeping a close eye and keeping you updated with any watches or warnings. Temperatures will stay warmer Wednesday in the upper 70’s and cooling down into the upper 60’s behind the front for Thursday and Friday with overnight lows in the mid 40’s.

The weekend is looking dry with temperatures getting back into the 70’s.

Have a wonderful day!

Monday, March 26, 2007

Monday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We have had quite a bit of rain across the area since last night. The southern and western portions ranged from 2 to 3 inches with the northern and central portions picking up an inch or less. There were a few higher isolated amounts. Highs were in the 60s due to mostly cloudy and overcast skies as well as some showers and thunderstorms.

The rain will come to an end from west to east by early tomorrow morning. This is due to the upper level low moving east of us. We should begin tomorrow with some rain in the eastern portions of the viewing area and some patchy fog across the entire Big Country. Clouds are expected to decrease through the day and by late tomorrow afternoon it should be partly cloudy to mostly sunny. Highs look to be in the upper 70s to low 80s.

Another upper level trough is expected to build in the west over the next couple of days. It should help push a dryline into the area late Wednesday and a cold front on Thursday. This means we have a chance for showers and thunderstorms. That chance is 20% on Wednesday and 40% on Thursday. It is possible for some of the storms we see to reach severe levels. We will be keeping a close eye on this and letting you know if any watches or warnings are issued. Highs on Wednesday should be in the upper 70s to low 80s. Thursday will likely be much cooler thanks to the passage of the cold front with highs in the upper 60s to low 70s.

Friday and the weekend look dry for now with highs ranging from the upper 60s to mid 70s during that time period.

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Monday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

We are starting the work week off on the soggy side. The biggest concern this morning is flooding from extensive rainfall we have seen in some areas around the Big Country. Please be careful, especially on water covered roadways.

Grab the umbrella or rain jacket this morning! We will be seeing the activity continue throughout the day today with showers and thunderstorms possible tonight as this system pushes through west central Texas. Temperatures will only make it into the upper 60’s to lower 70’s because of our widespread cloud cover. Overnight we will see temperatures in the mid 50’s.

This system will clear out for tomorrow with a shower still possibly lingering in the morning hours. By the afternoon we will see partly sunny skies before the next system quickly makes its way into the area Wednesday. Because of sunshine tomorrows temperatures will rise into the upper 70’s.

The next upper level trough will push through a cold front that will knock temperatures down for a few days by midweek. Rain chances are back on the board for Wednesday and Thursday. Temperatures will stay warm for Wednesday in the upper 70’s with upper 60’s behind the front Thursday and Friday.

Have a great week!

Friday, March 23, 2007

Chance For Rain This Weekend

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was another day with mostly cloudy to overcast skies. This kept our temperatures from getting too warm today. Highs were in the low to mid 70s. There were a few scattered showers in the eastern portions of the viewing area this morning and most of the afternoon.

The bulk of the shower and thunderstorm activity in the Lone Star State has remained to our west. There have been several severe thunderstorm and tornado warnings in the Texas panhandle, west Texas, and eastern New Mexico this afternoon and evening. All of the rain is due to the upper level low which has moved into southeastern Arizona. It is expected to be in southern Colorado by late tomorrow morning. We will continue to have a chance for showers and thunderstorms tonight and tomorrow. That chance is 40% with the best shot for precipitation being in the western portions of the viewing area.

Another upper level trough and possibly an upper level low is expected to develop to our west behind the current upper level low. This second possible low looks to move across the region Sunday and Monday. If this scenario pans out, we have a good chance for rain. Right now, there is a 50% to 60% chance for rain during that time period. It is possible for us to see some severe thunderstorms and heavy rain this weekend and Monday. We will be keeping a close eye on the situation and keeping you updated on any watches and warnings that are issued. Highs this weekend and Monday are expected to be in the low 70s, but could be warmer or cooler depending on how much cloud cover and rain we see.

Tuesday should be dry with partly cloudy skies and highs in the upper 70s.

We have another shot at some rain late Wednesday through early Friday with the arrival of a cold front. That chance is slight to 20% for now, but could increase as we get closer to that time period.

Have a super Saturday!

Friday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly...

With plenty of moisture in the Big Country we saw a blanket of clouds yesterday and a few scattered showers around the area. Here in Abilene we got .01 rain reported although not much it is a sign that the rain is coming, just a little later than expected. Temperatures stayed steadily in the lower 70’s and winds continued to gust out of the South brining in abundant of low level moisture.

As the upper level low is being pushed towards our region we are finally seeing some disturbances get thrown into our area along with plenty of pacific moisture in our mid and upper levels. With moisture already readily available, this will help to keep the rain chances in for today and the rest of the weekend. The track of the low is now taking it through central New Mexico and pushing it towards Colorado. Because of the current track there is some good and bad news. The good news is does look like most of the severe weather will stay off towards the Big Bend and Panhandle. The bad news is the bulk of the rain will also stay off towards our west and north. Along with that, in our own area, the best chance for activity will be our northern and western counties. During the weekend we will keep in a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms with possibility of seeing an isolated strong to severe storm. Temperatures will stay in the lower 70’s because of the mostly cloudy skies. Overnight lows will hit in the upper 50’s.

As this system finally makes its progress up towards the Rockies we will gradually clear things up. We should dry up by Tuesday with temperatures rising back into the upper 70’s.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Thursday, March 22, 2007

Thursday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had cooler temperatures today thanks in part to the mostly cloudy and overcast skies. There were also some scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms. The rain was light and amounts were only a few hundreths of an inch. Highs were in the upper 60s to low 70s.

The upper level low that we have been expecting to develop all week has finally done so over the Baja California region. The latest projected path has it moving into southern Arizona by tomorrow night. It will then move into northern New Mexico/southern Colorado by Saturday night. By Sunday night, the low should be in the central plains. If it follows this track, then the majority of the heavy rain and severe thunderstorms will be just west of the viewing area. We could still have some of this activity in our area. It just depends on the exact track of the low. Right now, our rain chances range from 40% to 50% Friday through Sunday with the best shot being on Saturday. The reason we still have a chance for rain is due to the disturbances that will be sent out by the low. Some of those should move through our region. Highs for the end of the work week and weekend look to be in the low 70s.

The first half of next week is expected to be dry with highs in the upper 70s to low 80s under partly cloudy skies.

Have a fantastic Friday!

Thursday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

As the saying goes patience is a virtue and with this storm system we have had to be patient. With the slow progress of the storm we were able to see some partly cloudy skies on our first full day of spring with temperatures getting into the lower 80’s. Showers and Thunderstorms did develop along the dryline although it stayed just off to our west.

Today we are continuing the precipitation chances as this system is finally developing off the Baja peninsula. It will begin its progress towards our area, throwing disturbances and plenty of moisture our way. This will allow for overcast skies over the next couple days. Since the track is slower the best chance for the activity has been pushed back towards the weekend. We could still see some stronger storms mainly along the dryline which should push into our western counties over the next few days. With this system, we will continue the upward trend with rain chances starting today at 30 percent and increasing to 50 percent by Saturday. By Sunday it should begin to be pushed into the Colorado region clearing up our weather by the beginning of the work week.

Temperatures will stay steady over the next several days with highs in the lower 70’s and low in the upper 50’s.

Have a great day!

Wednesday, March 21, 2007

Wednesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had another warm, windy and dry day across the Big Country today. Skies were mostly to partly cloudy with highs in the low 80s. We continued to have windy conditions with south winds of 15 to 25 mph and stronger gusts. Some showers and thunderstorms developed along the dryline late this afternoon and evening to our west. The precipitation has remained just outside of the viewing area so far.

It looks like the upper level low is finally developing near southern California. This low is expected to send some disturbances our way over the next couple of days before the low itself passes us by this weekend. The current projected track has it over New Mexico late Friday into Saturday and not arriving into the central plains until late Sunday. With the dryline also being active during this time period, we have a 40% to 50% chance of rain Thursday through Sunday with the best chance of precipitation occurring on Saturday. It is still possible for the viewing area to see heavy rain and severe thunderstorms for the second half of the week. We will be keeping a close eye on this situation and keeping you updated about any watches or warnings that are issued. Highs Thursday through Sunday should be in the low to mid 70s, but could be cooler or warmer depending on how much cloud cover and rain we see.

The first half of next week looks dry with highs in the upper 70s to low 80s under partly cloudy skies.

Have a terrific Thursday!

Wednesday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly...

We had plenty of cloud cover yesterday although a few breaks in the clouds helped the temperatures to rise into the upper 70's. Our eastern counties were able to see a bit of rainfall earlier in the morning. Today we will again start off with temperatures in the 60's with plenty of humidity. This could allow for some patchy fog and drizzle throughout the morning. By this afternoon we could see isolated showers and thunderstorms with the possibility of a strong to severe storm off towards our northwestern counties. The best chance of activity will be along the dryline that is currently over the Big Bend region. The rain chances will continue to be on the rise with 20 percent today and 30 percent overnight. Temperatures will get into the 70's today with lows in the 60's.

With the cut off low inches its way towards our area we will be seeing better rain chances tomorrow. This will be because of the abundant moisture getting pushed in from the pacific in the mid and upper levels along with low level gulf moisture from our southerly winds. As the system approaches disturbances will be thrown our way adding for the increasing chance of thunderstorms. We could see the possibility again of a sever storm and also flooding.

Rain chances are at 50 percent for Thursday through Saturday with temperatures in the lower 70's and lows in the upper 50's.

Have a great day!

Tuesday, March 20, 2007

Tuesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was another day of mostly cloudy skies for the Big Country today. The eastern portions of the viewing area had some showers and isolated thunderstorms. We also had breezy conditions with winds from the south at 15 to 20 mph with stronger gusts. Highs were in the mid to upper 70s.

An upper level trough has formed over the far western portions of the nation. A low should develop in this trough by tomorrow night. During the day tomorrow, we will keep an eye on the dryline. It should move a little closer to the region, so we have a chance for showers and thunderstorms. That chance is 20% during the day and increases to 30% overnight. Highs tomorrow look to be in the mid to upper 70s.

The upper level low to our west is expected to hang around Baja California on Thursday before moving into New Mexico on Friday. It should then move across the Oklahoma and Texas panhandles on Saturday before it arrives in the central plains on Sunday. What this means for us is a good chance for rain Thursday through Saturday. Upper level disturbances and possibly the dryline could move into the Big Country Thursday and Friday. We have a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms both days. That same chance will continue on Saturday due to the low passing us just to the north-northwest. There is a 20% chance of some lingering showers and thunderstorms on Sunday. We do have a potential for heavy rain and severe thunderstorms Thursday through Saturday. It is a situation we will be watching very closely. Highs for the second half of the week look to be in the upper 60s to low 70s.

Monday and Tuesday should be dry. Highs will likely be in the mid to upper 70s under partly cloudy skies.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Monday, March 19, 2007

Monday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had a warm, windy and dry day across the Big Country. Highs ranged from the mid 70s to low 80s under partly to mostly cloudy skies. Winds were sustained from the south at 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 35 mph.

A cold front is just to our north in the panhandle this evening. That is where it is expected to stall out. We could see a stray shower or thunderstorm slide into the area overnight. That chance is slight though. Lows will be in the upper 50s to low 60s with breezy south winds.

Windy conditions are expected to continue tomorrow. The dryline, the boundary that separates warm, dry air from warm, moist air, should set up to our west. It is possible for some isolated showers and thunderstorms to develop along it and move into our region. It is not out of the question for an isolated severe thunderstorm to form. Our chance for rain on Tuesday is 20%. Highs look to be in the low to mid 70s under mostly cloudy skies.

We have a better chance for rain Wednesday through Saturday. In fact, our chance is 40% to 50% during that time period. The reason we have a good shot at some rain is due to an upper level low developing to our west. This will send some disturbances our way before the low itself passes to our north-northwest Friday and into Saturday. The dryline will likely be active for most of this period as well. It is possible for us to see some heavy rain and severe thunderstorms this week. We will be keeping a very close eye on this situation and updating you about it. Highs during this time period will range from the upper 60s to mid 70s under mostly cloudy skies.

There could be some lingering showers and thunderstorms Sunday as the low moves away from the area. Highs look to be in the low 70s under partly cloudy skies.

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Monday Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly...

We have seen a mostly clear overnight with temperatures staying mild in the 60's, however with the breeze it feels a bit cool and a light jacket will be needed on your morning commute. Today we will begin to see the devolvement of an active week. Warm, windy conditions and Partly Cloudy skies will push the temperatures into the upper 70's. A stray shower/thunderstorm could be possible especially into the overnight where we will see Mostly Cloudy skies and temperatures in the lower 60's.

Tomorrow we will begin to increase the rain chances. A few weak disturbances will be thrown our way with them getting stronger towards the Wednesday-Saturday time frame. This will be because an upper level storm system that will be approaching from the west. Along with that a dry line and cold front will make its way into the Big Country. We will be keeping an eye on all this activity as there is the potential for heavy showers and strong storms. Temperatures for the week will stay in the lower 70's with overnights in the lower 60's.

Have a great week!

Friday, March 16, 2007

Wonderful Weekend On Tap For Us

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was a nice finish to the work week. Skies were mostly cloudy this morning, but by this afternoon it was mostly sunny. Highs ranged from the upper 50s to the upper 60s across the area. The cooler temperatures were due to the cold front which moved through the area last night.

This weekend looks picture perfect. Saturday will be mostly sunny while Sunday should be partly cloudy. With winds returning to south-southwest, this will help to warm us back up. Highs are expected to be in the mid to upper 70s with a few locations possibly in the low 80s on Sunday.

Monday through Friday look to have above average temperatures with highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s. The big story for next week is that we have a chance for rain each day of the work week. Rain chances range from 20% on Monday to 40% on Wednesday. Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday fall in between at 30%. There are a couple of reasons for our rain chances. One, the dryline should be active through at least the first half of the week. Two, an upper level trough will set up to our west. This will send some disturbance our way early in the week. The trough itself looks to be in the state by Wednesday. It is possible for some of the thunderstorms we see next week to be severe. This is something we will be keeping a close eye on and keeping you updated about.

Have a spectacular St. Patrick's Day!

St. Patty's looking nice!

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly...

Mother Nature is stating off the weekend a bit chilly this morning with temperatures mainly in the 40's around the Big Country. We are also seeing overcast skies with the clouds lingering behind the front that passed last night. Ahead of the front we got the temperatures quit above average reaching near 80 degrees. It was a perfect day to get some rays by reading a book or a trip to the pool.

Today we will see the clouds slowly diminish in the mroning hours and by the afternoon we should see the sunshine return. Our winds will be a bit gusty out of the North this will keep us much cooler than the past few days. Highs will only make it into the mid 60's. By the overnight we shuld see the winds shift back to the East and South, helping to bring in some warmer air. We will see one more overnight in the 40's but tomorrow the 70's will return. Sunday will again be a gradual rise into the upper 70's with with plenty of sunshine.

Next week is looking like an active one. Rain chances are o nthe board from Monday until Thursday. Temperatures iwll be i nthe mid 70's with overnight lows in the upper 50's. We will be watching this activity closely as there is the potentioal from some Thunderstorms with a possibility of a dryline and a few disturbances being pushed into our area.
Have an amazing weekend!

Thursday, March 15, 2007

Thursday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had a warm and beautiful afternoon across the Big Country after a dreary and foggy start. Visibilities were down to a quarter of mile or less in some locations early this morning. With plenty of sunshine this afternoon, we were able to see highs in the low 70s to low 80s across the area.

A cold front has moved through the region this evening. There is a slight chance for some isolated showers and thunderstorms overnight through the morning hours tomorrow. We could see some patchy fog as well so give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. Highs for Friday look to be in the low to mid 60s under partly cloudy skies.

The weekend looks pleasant. Saturday and Sunday should both be partly cloudy with highs in the low to mid 70s. Enjoy the wonderful weekend weather because changes will likely take place next week.

Above average temperatures will remain Monday through next Thursday with highs in the 70s. The change that is expected is several chances for rain. They begin Monday evening at slight and rise to 30% by Wednesday and Thursday. The reason we have several chances for rain next week is mainly due to an upper level trough setting up to our west. This will send disturbances our way during that time period. We could also see the dryline set up as well. There is a chance that some of the thunderstorms we see next week will reach severe levels. It is a situation we are keeping an eye on and will continue to keep you updated.

Have a fantastic Friday!

Thursday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly...

We saw a beautiful day yesterday despite a bit of cloud cover across the area. The clouds rolled out overnight and we saw temperatures in mid 50's. This morning we have fog present around the Big Country with visibilities less than a quarter a mile in some areas. Please take a few extra minutes on your drive to work.

Today we will see plenty of sunshine with temperatures in the lower 80's. Get out and enjoy the weather because this will be the last very warm day with a cold front making its way into the area later. This evening that front will pass and drop overnight lows in the mid 40's. Tomorrow temperatures will only make it into the mid 60's. Although rain chances not looking as promising as before we will still keep a 20 percent chance for a shower or thunderstorm tonight into tomorrow.

By the weekend temperatures will once again approach the 70's with partly cloudy skies. Overnight lows will again rise into the lower to mid 50's.

Have a great day!

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Wednesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We said goodbye to the showers and thunderstorms this morning. The cutoff upper level low that had been the cause for our rain finally moved to our east this afternoon. Skies were partly to mostly cloudy throughout the day. Highs were in the low 70s.

Tomorrow will be a warm and beautiful day across the Big Country. Highs look to be in the upper 70s to low 80s under mostly sunny skies.

A cold front is expected to move through the area Thursday night into Friday morning. There is a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms with the front. Highs for Friday will be in the low to mid 60s.

Saturday, St. Patrick's Day, and Sunday both look pleasant. Skies should be partly cloudy with highs in the upper 60s to low 70s.

An upper level trough may set up to our west by Tuesday of next week. If this happens, we will likely have disturbances move through the area bringing us more chances for rain.

Have a terrific Thursday!

Wednesday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly...

Showers and Thunderstorms picked up yesterday mainly in Brown, Coleman and Eastland Counties. For us in Abilene the sun came out in the afternoon and we saw a beautiful sunset with cumulus clouds on the horizon. Today we will continue to decrease the clouds and by the afternoon all of the viewing area should be seeing plenty of sunshine with a few clouds mixed in. Temperatures will make it feel like spring break reaching into the upper 70's.Overnight will be a pleasant one with Mostly Clear skies and temperatures in the lower 50's.

Tomorrow we will see much of the same with slightly warmer temperatures and more sunshine. Tomorrow night is when we will be seeing some changes on the horizon with a cold front punching through Thursday night into Friday morning. This will kick back the temperature to highs Friday in the mid 60's and overnight lows in the mid 40's. Along with the cooler weather there is a twenty percent chance for showers and thunderstorms. For the rest of the weekend we will gradually warm the temperatures back up with highs in upper 60's Saturday and Sunday in the lower 70's.

By mid next week we could see another upper level disturbance bring rain chances back in the forecast.

Have a great day!

Tuesday, March 13, 2007

Tuesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

Part of the Big Country has dealt with showers and thunderstorms today. In fact, Coleman, Brown, and Comanche counties each had severe thunderstorm warnings for penny to quarter size hail and winds in excess of 60 mph. Skies were mostly cloudy today with highs in the upper 60s to low 70s.

The cutoff low that has been the primary source for the rain across our area and the state the last couple of days will move through the region overnight. This means we still have a chance for more isolated and widely scattered showers and thunderstorms. Our chance for rain will end from west to east overnight and early tomorrow morning. Lows tonight look to be in the low to mid 50s.

There is still a 20% chance of some isolated showers and thunderstorms in the far eastern portions of the viewing area tomorrow morning. By tomorrow afternoon, everyone should have partly cloudy skies and highs in the mid to upper 70s.

Thursday is expected to be warm and dry with mostly sunny skies and highs in the upper 70s to low 80s.

Another cold front looks to arrive late Thursday night into early Friday morning. Right now, our chance for showers and thunderstorms is 20% with this next lifting mechinism. That could increase as we get a little closer to that time period. Highs on Friday should be much cooler in the mid to upper 60s.

Saturday through Monday is expected to be dry with partly cloudy skies and highs ranging from the upper 60s to mid 70s.

We're keeping our eye on next Tuesday as an upper level disturbance may move through the area bringing us a chance for even more rain.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Tuesday Morning Update

Good morning from morning meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

Fog and morning mist gave way to a few breaks in the clouds yesterday afternoon. Although not a lot of activity picked up on the radar, folks in our eastern counties have seen showers throughout the overnight from Brownwood, to Eastland to Breckenridge. The good thing is with the amount of rainfall we have seen around the Big Country we will be staying in the plus category throughout the month of March.

Today we will see a few breaks in the clouds which will allow for some instability in the atmosphere this could help the possibility of a strong to severe storm. The best chance for showers and thunderstorm activity will be in our Eastern counties were low level moistures is more available.
Temperatures will top off in the lowers 70's.

Overnight the upper level low will makes its way eastward so we will continue the possibility for showers and thunderstorms mainly before midnight. After that we will see scattered clouds with mild temperatures in the lower 50's.

Tomorrow more sunshine will help to push the temperatures around 80 degrees. By Friday our next front will make its way through the area cooling us down for the weekend with highs only in the 60's.

Have a great day!

Monday, March 12, 2007

Monday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had quite a bit of rain across the Big Country on Sunday. Most locations received somewhere between 1 to 3 inches. Today started out dreary with cloudy skies, but by this afternoon we had some sunshine. That was due to some dry air moving in at the mid and upper levels of the atmosphere. Highs today ranged from the mid 60s in Sweetwater and Snyder to the mid 70s in Brownwood. Abilene had a high of 70.

The cutoff low that was partly responsible for our rain yesterday remains to our west. It is expected to move slowly eastward across our area through the day and evening tomorrow. This means that we have a chance for showers and thunderstorms tonight through Tuesday night. It is possible for a few showers and thunderstorms to linger into the eastern portions of the area on Wednesday. Our best chance for rain looks to be tomorrow afternoon and evening at 40%. We likely won't pick up as much rain as we had yesterday, but could see another quarter to half inch on average across the region. Some isolated spots could receive more. It just depends on where the heavy rain moves through. Highs tomorrow and Wednesday should be in the 70s.

Thursday looks dry with partly cloudy skies and highs in the mid 70s. A cold front is expected to move through the area Thursday night into early Friday. Rain does not look likely at this time. Thanks to the cooler air in place, highs on Friday should be in the mid 60s.

This weekend looks pleasant with partly cloudy skies and highs in the upper 60s to low 70s.

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Wet Start to the Work Week

Good morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly….

It was the tale of two extremes this weekend going from highs in the 80's with plenty of sunshine to record rainfall yesterday and highs in the upper 60's. Yesterday our rainfall amounted to 1.71 over near tripling our old record of .66. This has pushed us once again in the plus category for rainfall for the year and we will stay that way through the month of March.

This morning started off a little humid with temperatures in the lower 50's and cloudy skies. We will see the activity kick back up this afternoon and continue until we can push out the upper level low on Wednesday. Until then occasional showers and thunderstorms will continue with temperatures in the upper 60's and overnight lows in the lower 50's.

After this system makes its way out of the Big Country we will rebound the temperatures in the upper 70's wednesday. However it will be short lived, as the next front makes it way through Thursday. The weekend looks dry with temperatures in the mid 60's and overnight lows in the mid 40's.

Have a great day and drive safe!

Friday, March 09, 2007

Rain Chances Looking Better

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had another beautiful and warm day here in the Big Country. Despite a weak cold front moving through the area, highs were in the mid 70s to low 80s this afternoon. All the front did for us was dry us out a little bit and shift our winds to the northwest. Skies were mostly sunny for most of the day.

Saturday looks to be another pleasant and warm day. Highs will be in the upper 70s to low 80s under partly cloudy skies.

Another cold front is expected to arrive Saturday night into early Sunday morning. We could see some showers and thunderstorms in the region overnight Saturday night and remain off and on through Monday. The reason for our rain chances is not only the front, but an upper level low that looks to move over us Sunday and Monday. Our chance for rain on Sunday is 60%. Monday, that chance decreases to 40%. Highs Sunday and Monday should be in the mid to upper 60s, but could be cooler depending on how much cloud cover and rain we see. If everything plays out just right with the front and the low, we could see at least half an inch of rain in the area with isolated higher amounts.

Tuesday and Wednesday are expected to be dry with partly cloudy skies and highs in the 70s.

Yet another cold front looks to move through the area on Thursday bringing cooler temperatures for the end of the next work week. There is also a slight chance for rain on Thursday.

Have a super Saturday!

Friday Morning Forecast

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly….

It is warm start to the weekend, temperatures around the Big Country this morning in the upper 50’s to lower 60’s. We are seeing a bit of activity showing up on the Triple Doppler radar, however most of it not hitting the ground. The clouds that are present will begin to break up and by the afternoon we will see Mostly Sunny skies. Temperatures will mirror yesterday reaching into mid 70’s with winds out of the North around 10-15 mph.

Overnight we will get a bit cooler with lows around 50 degrees. Tomorrow we will see a slight rise in temperatures with some locations making it into the 80’s. Although it will be short lived as a front passes Sunday we will knock the temperatures into the upper 60’s. Right now Sunday is the best chance for showers and thunderstorms with main activity staying in our eastern counties. Otherwise this weekend we will see Partly Cloudy skies.

By the beginning of next week temperatures will be in the 70’s with a mix of sun and clouds.

Have a good weekend!

Thursday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

The warm above average temperatures continued for us today with highs mainly in the mid to upper 70s. Sweetwater and Snyder were a little cooler as both got up to 72.

We could see a few isolated showers and thunderstorms tonight through tomorrow morning due to an upper level disturbance. We are still a bit too dry at the surface to see any significant rain. It is likely that we will have nothing more than a few sprinkles. Mostly cloudy skies tonight should give way to partly cloudy skies tomorrow. Highs on Friday look to be in the mid 70s.

With a cold front not expected to arrive until Sunday morning now, Saturday is expected to be dry with partly cloudy skies and highs in the upper 70s. It is possible for a few locations to reach 80.

The cold front that should arrive on Sunday will bring us a 30% chance for showers and thunderstorms. Highs are expected to reach the upper 60s to low 70s under mostly cloudy skies.

We have a 20% chance for rain Sunday night and Monday, but that could increase. An upper level low is expected to develop close to our area and possibly move through it. All of the computer models have been inconsistent lately with the position of the low. It is something we are keeping an eye on and will keep you updated about. Highs on Monday look to be in the low 70s.

Tuesday through next Thursday look dry for now with highs in the mid to upper 70s.

Have a fantastic Friday!

Thursday, March 08, 2007

Picture Perfect

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

Picture Perfect weather has continued across the area with highs in the upper 70’s yesterday and plenty of sunshine. This morning is again a very mild morning with temperatures starting out in the lower 50 to upper 40’s. Today we will raise those temperatures in the upper 70’s. We will see a bit more cloud cover but still plenty of sunshine. Winds will stay light out of the Southeast around 5 mph this will help to bring in a little more moisture.

With a bit moisture and a shortwave passing over west central Texas we may be able to see an Isolated Thunderstorm in our northwestern counties. Otherwise we will see partly cloudy skies with temperatures in the lower 50’s.

Carbon copy days will continue for Friday and Saturday. By Sunday we will see a cold front pass by the area however not looking to cool us down as much as previously forecasted. The rain chances are also bumped down just a bit with not as much moisture being pushed in. Temperatures will continue in the mid 70’s and overnight lows around 50 degrees.

Have a great day!

Wednesday, March 07, 2007

Wednesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had a picture perfect day across the Big Country today with mostly sunny skies and warm temperatures. Highs were mainly in the low to mid 70s, but Abilene and Brownwood managed to make it to 77. Winds were light through much of the day with a bit of a breeze at times.

Thursday and Friday should be dry with partly cloudy skies. Highs look to be in the mid to upper 70s.

The first half of the weekend is expected to be warm with highs on Saturday in the mid to upper 70s. A cold front should move through the area Saturday night bringing us a 20% chance for showers and thunderstorms. That chance increases to 30% on Sunday due to the front and an upper level low possibly in the region. Rain chances fall back down to 20% for Monday. Highs Sunday and Monday look to be in the mid to upper 60s under mostly cloudy skies.

Partly cloudy skies and dry conditions return Tuesday and next Wednesday with highs in the 70s.

Have a terrific Thursday!

Beautiful Conditions Continue

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

Beautiful conditions continued across the Big Country yesterday with the only downfall being some breezy winds. Temperatures once again made it into the lower 70’s with gusts around 30 mph.

This morning we are seeing mild temperatures with even some 50’s on the board however most of us waking in the 40’s. Again today those temperatures will warm up into the 70’s maybe a few degrees cooler with a cold front brushing our area. This front will not make its way through as it will stall out in our Northern counties but bring in a few scattered clouds.

The rest of the week the temperatures will hold steady in the mid 70’s with overnight lows around 50 degrees.

Like the pattern seems to go our next system will push into the area this weekend with a cold front knocking temperatures back into the 60’s. Best shot of a shower or thunderstorm will be Saturday night into Tuesday Morning.

Have a great day!

Tuesday, March 06, 2007

Tuesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was another beautiful day across the region. Partly cloudy skies this morning turned to mostly sunny this afternoon. Winds were breezy from the south as highs reached the low to mid 70s.

Partly cloudy skies and dry conditions look to be with us Wednesday through Friday with highs in the low to mid 70s.

Moisture is expected to continue building back into the region throughout the week. A cold front should move through the area Saturday night. It looks like enough moisture will be in place for us to have a chance for showers and thunderstorms that night and into Sunday. That chance is only 20% for now, but could increase as we get closer to the end of the week. One of the computer models is indicating a cutoff low developing near our area on Sunday and hanging around through Monday. I decided to be optimistic and continue our 20% chance for rain through the first day of next week. Keep your fingers crossed that rain chances get better because we need the precipitation. Our deficit continues to grow and is approaching half an inch already for the year. Highs for Saturday should be in the low to mid 70s. Sunday will be cooler with highs in the mid to upper 60s.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Tuesday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly

Yesterday we started off chilly but by the afternoon the sunshine helped get the temperatures to just around 70 degrees.

Today again we will see a beautiful day with plenty of sunshine and temperatures in the mid 70’s. The winds will kick up with gusts up to 30 mph, due to a trough system off to our west. Once again the conditions for fire danger are present – dry, warm and windy. Please be careful if you have to do any burning if your county is not under a burn ban
Overnight will be a mild one with temperatures hitting the lower 40’s under clear skies.

The next few days are fairly redundant with temperatures staying in the 70’s and overnight lows in the lower 50’s. We will knock temps back just a few degrees tomorrow with a very weak cool front passing through giving us some winds out of the North.

By the weekend our next front will pass by giving us a slight chance for a shower and temperatures in the upper 60’s Sunday.

Have a great day!

Monday, March 05, 2007

Monday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had a pleasant start to the week with mostly sunny skies and winds from the south that were breezy at times. Highs were in the mid 60s to low 70s.

Above average temperatures will continue tomorrow with highs in the low to mid 70s. Skies look to be mostly sunny with a few more clouds than what we saw today. Winds will be breezy from the south. We have an elevated fire danger because of this and the dry airmass that remains in place. Please be careful and do all that you can to prevent fires.

A weak cold front may brush the area on Wednesday cooling our temperatures a few degrees. Highs should be in the upper 60s to low 70s under partly cloudy skies.

Thursday and Friday are expected to be dry with partly cloudy skies and highs in the mid to upper 70s.

Another cold front looks to move through the region on Saturday. We could have enough moisture back in place by that time so there is a 20% chance for showers and thunderstorms. Highs on Saturday will likely be in the upper 60s to low 70s.

There is a 20% chance for lingering showers and thunderstorms early Sunday. Partly cloudy skies should continue with highs in the mid to upper 60s.

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Spring like week ahead!

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly

It was a chilly weekend across the Big Country with overnight lows Sunday morning dropping into the teens. We were only three degrees shy of a record low. However spring is just a few weeks away and the spring like temperatures have arrived for the rest of the week. This morning will be another jacket and gloves morning but by the afternoon the highs will be approaching 70 degrees. Plenty of sunshine and light winds will make it a comfy afternoon. Overnight lows will stay just around 40, much warmer than the past few nights.

The rest of the week looks pretty quiet with only a few weak fronts making its way into the area. We should see lots of sunshine over next several days with temperatures in the lower 70’s and overnight lows in the mid 40’s.

This weekend brings our next shot at a shower although it is slight with lack of moistures in the region.

Have a great week!

Friday, March 02, 2007

Cool Temperatures This Weekend

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had a pleasant day across the Big Country. Highs were in the mid 50s to low 60s, which is a little below average for this time of year. Skies were mostly sunny with light winds.

A cold front will move through the area overnight bringing us colder temperatures for the weekend. Lows tonight and Saturday night should be below freezing so be sure to protect your pets, plants, and pipes. Highs for Saturday are expected to be in the low 50s. Sunday should be a little warmer with highs in the upper 50s. Due to a lack of moisture, precipitation is not expected with this front. We will have breezy north-northwest winds on Saturday. Combine that with low relative humidty values tomorrow and we have an elevated fire danger. Please be careful and do all that you can to prevent fires.

Monday through Thursday of next week look dry with mostly sunny skies and warmer temperatures. Highs should range from the upper 60s to mid 70s.

Another cold front looks to move through the area next Friday bringing cooler temperatures for the end of the work week. If we have enough moisture in place, precipitation is possible. We'll just have to wait and see until we get closer to that time period if we can get some rain from the front.

Have a super Saturday!

Thursday, March 01, 2007

Thursday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

March began as a small lion for us with breezy northwest winds. A cold front moved through the area earlier this morning bringing cooler temperatures. Highs were in the upper 50s to mid 60s under sunny skies.

High pressure will set up shop in the Lone Star State tomorrow. This will keep our skies sunny. Highs look to be in the low to mid 60s with light west-northwest winds.

A cold front is expected to move through the region late Friday night into early Saturday morning. Due to a lack of moisture, precipitation does not look possible. Winds should be breezy from the north. Highs should only reach the low to mid 50s. Some areas may only be in the upper 40s for highs.

The second half of the weeknd looks cool as well. Highs on Sunday are expected to be in the mid 50s to around 60 under mostly sunny skies.

The first half of next week will likely be dry. Highs should range from the upper 60s to mid 70s under mostly sunny skies.

Have a fantastic Friday!

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