Saturday, June 30, 2007

Saturday Update

Good Afternoon from Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

We have continued to see the rainfall in our southern and eastern counties this afternoon while the rest of us got a break with a bit of sunshine and some cloudy skies. Right now we still have the flood warning in effect for the Leon River near Delon in Comanche county.

Although we are seeing a slight break from the showers plenty more chances are in the forecast…

Tonight and tomorrow we will still see a 20% chance for showers and thunderstorms along the frontal boundary that is still draped over northeast Texas. With partly cloudy skies it won’t be a complete wash out and you can head for some fun around the pool or walk with the dog.

By the beginning of the week the low that caused a lot of the rain and flooding last week will be pushing back our way. It has been situated in the Oklahoma/Kansas area causing havoc for that neck of the woods. The high that has been parked around the four corners will begin to push into the plains which only pushes the low back down to the southwest. This means increased rain chances for the beginning of the week. Grab the umbrella for the work week!

Temperatures will be in the mid 80’s with lows in the upper 60’s.

Have a great weekend!

Friday, June 29, 2007

Friday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had another day of below average temperatures here in the Big Country thanks to abundant cloud cover and some rain. Showers and thunderstorms were not as widespread across our area as they have been in the last couple of days. Highs were in the mid 70s to mid 80s. A Flash Flood Watch continues for Haskell, Throckmorton, Fisher, Jones, Shackelford, Nolan, Taylor, Callahan, Coke, Runnels, Coleman and Brown counties until Saturday morning.

The upper level low and stationary front that have helped bring us the rain this week will continue to be in and around the area this weekend. Both features should weaken so the chance for rain is a little less at 30%. Highs should be in the mid to upper 80s under mostly cloudy skies.

It looks like an upper level high pressure ridge that is in the southwestern part of the United States will build into the central plains early next week. This could cause what is left of the low and the front to move southwest across our area towards the Big Bend region. The chance for showers and thunderstorms is a little better at 40% for Monday through Wednesday due to this possible scenario. Highs will remain in the mid to upper 80s.

A 20% chance for rain will linger into Thursday and next Friday. Highs are expected to be in the low 90s under partly cloudy skies.

Have a super and safe Saturday!

Fridau Morning Outlook

Morning All!

Pete here... with more of the same we've been experiencing for last several days. We see the potential for more rainfall as our system moves slowly to the southeast. One promising item noted this morning was Doppler activity was lightest seen in a while.

Rain continues to follow the I-35 corridor from the gulf, up through Oklahoma. This could effect those counties in our area that have already been heavily saturated, (Brownwood & Coleman).

Flash Flood Watches will remain in effect again today...if you are driving and see flowing water, please turn around.

Thanks for choosing Abilene's First News for your weather updates - Stay Safe.

Thursday, June 28, 2007

Thursday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

Showers and thunderstorms continued across much of the Big Country today thanks to an upper level low that will not go away. It drifted southeast across the eastern and northeastern portions of the viewing area. The heaviest rain today was in Haskell, Throckmorton, Stephens, Eastland, Comanche, Brown, Coleman and Runnels counties. A Flash Flood Watch remains in effect through Friday afternoon for the entire viewing area with the exception of Stonewall, Scurry and Mitchell counties.
Flood Warnings remain in effect until 2 am for Stephens, Eastland and Comanche counties.

The upper level low is expected to remain close to or possibly in the area again tomorrow. A weak stationary front may also be around. With plenty of moisture still in place, showers and thunderstorms are likely in the eastern portions of the Big Country. The western portions is where rain will only be possible due to the low being east of those communities. It is possible for 2 to 5 inches of rain to fall across parts of the area by tomorrow night.

The front should fizzle out and the low should weaken this weekend. This means our chances for rain will be a little less at 30 to 40 percent. Highs look to be in the mid to upper 80s under mostly cloudy skies.

The low may not be completely gone by Monday so we'll hang onto a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Highs should be in the upper 80s.

Some more upper level disturbances could move into the region Tuesday through next Thursday. The chance for rain is only 20%, but that could increase as we get closer to that time period. Highs are expected to return back into the low 90s by then.

Have a fantastic Friday!

Thursday Morning Outlook

Morning Everyone.

Seems the potential for more heavy rainfall is with us again! The set-up we've been experiencing for the past week lingers , but may finally decide to make a move today.

Expect 2-4" of more rain in some areas. This morning reports of 4-5" falling in the northwestern areas over the past 24 hours were not uncommon. Satellite imagery shows that there is a system developing around San Angelo which could cut-off some of the moisture flow from the gulf and keep rainfall amounts to the bearable levels.

Keep an eye out for showers to continue around the outflow boundaries and look for cooler temps again today thanks to the precipitation and thick cloud cover. Highs today in the low 80's with a 40 - 60% chance of showers pending on your location.

Thanks for checking in with KRBC for your weather updates and stay safe!

Pete

Wednesday, June 27, 2007

Wednesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had quite a bit of shower and thunderstorm activity in the viewing area this morning. Some areas picked up some additional precipitaiton this evening as well. Abilene Regional Airport set a rainfall record of 2.87" today. Highs were well below average for this time of year due to plenty of cloud cover and the rain.

An upper level low will be the main focus for our continued chance for showers and thunderstorms through the end of the week. The low is in Oklahoma this evening, but is expected to move into the eastern portions of the viewing area overnight. Tonight looks to be our best chance for rain right now. With the possibility of heavy rain over areas that have already been saturated by ealier precipitation, most of the viewing area is under a Flash Flood Watch through tomorrow morning. Comanche, Eastland and Stephens counties are under the watch through Friday morning. Knox, Stonewall, Scurry and Mitchell counties are not under a watch at this time. Comanche, Eastland, and Stephens counties are under a Flood Warning until 10 a.m. Thursday morning. It is possible for some locations to receive another 1 to 3 inches of rain through Friday morning. Highs for the end of the work week should be in the low to mid 80s.

The low should weaken this weekend but with enough moisture expected to remain in place, showers and thunderstorms will be possible. The chance is 30%. Highs look to be in the upper 80s under mostly to partly cloudy skies.

There is a 20% chance for showers and thunderstorms through the first half of next with highs back in the low 90s.

Have a terrific Thursday!

Wednesday Update

Good Morning from Kristen Connolly…

It has been a wet week across the Big Country. We had a nice break in the activity yesterday afternoon and temperatures climbed back from 79 the day before yesterday in Abilene to hit 90 yesterday. The overnight has been a different story- we have seen numerous amounts of rainfall and also lots of areas seeing flooding. Here at the Abilene Regional Airport we picked up 2.29 inches of rain which should set a new record for the 27th of June.

This morning showers will continue mainly in our Southern and Eastern counties. Again many of us have seen to much rain over the past few days and flooding is becoming a huge issue. Here in Abilene, we have had unconfirmed reports of water rescues around Rolling Green drive and Ridgemont ( right near the mall ). Many roadways were flooded around 3 and 4 am however by the morning commute in Abilene the rain has calmed down. Again remember “turn around don’t drown”.

Most of the area is under a flood watch until tomorrow morning. More rain is expected today and tonight with the pesty upper level low still staying in our area. Temperatures will be in the mid 80’s with overnight lows in the upper 60’s.

Rain chances continue to stay in the forecast through the next seven days with temperatures in the mid 80’s through end of the week and by next week back in the 90’s. Please be careful on the roadways.

Have a good day.

Tuesday, June 26, 2007

Tuesday Evening Forecast

Good Evening everyone - Pete here. Our wet conditions continue off to the east as the lift from the upper-level low combines with the abundant moisture in the air. We can expect a 50/50 shot at rain and more localized flooding as long as this set-up remains with us. Let keep our fingers crossed and hope this system starts to weaken, move off to the west, or both come Thursday to give us the opportunity to dry out.

As of yesterday, the city of Abilene had about 18 1/2" inches of rainfall - alot when you consider our yearly average is 23"! Look for lows near 70 once again tonight and highs in the mid to upper 80's tomorrow.

Thanks for checking with KRBC for your weather updates

Tuesday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

We saw tons of rain across the area picking up from an inch in some places to over 4 inches in our southern and eastern counties. This has caused flooding problems across the area, remember “Turn around don’t drown.” All of the warnings will expire this morning, with the exception of Runnels which is in effect till this evening. We also have a watch remaining in effect for most our area through Wednesday morning. With the continued rains we are most likely going to see more advisories posted so stayed tuned to KRBC for any updates.

This morning only a few showers and thunderstorms are still churning mainly in Comanche and Eastland. We will continue to see the activity through the day again today. Today- same story, different day- plenty of moisture and an upper level low right over our region. Temperatures will stay near ten degrees below average in the low to mid 80’s. Our western counties received the most sunshine and warmth yesterday and will once again today- they will see upper 80’s.

We will keep the rain chances pretty likely until Thursday hopefully by the weekend we can push the low out. With more sun available highs will get back to the low 90’s into the weekend.

Have a good day.

Monday, June 25, 2007

Monday Evening Weather

It's another evening of our rainy pattern in Big Country. Don't expect this condition to change any time soon as the presusre systems responsible for this activity have "camped out" and show no movement. This translates to the chances for precip into our next weeks end. Look for temperatures to remain below normal with highs in the upper 80's and lows to stay near 70.
Thanks for checking in to Abilene's First News for your weather updates...stay dry!

Monday Morning Forecast

Good Morning everyone from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

Overall it wasn’t a bad weekend across the area. We saw a little more cloud cover and below average temperatures with scattered showers. Sunday evening was when the activity again picked up and we saw plenty of rainfall over mainly our central and southern counties-Coke, Runnels, Coleman and Taylor.

This morning the showers continue, the biggest threat with this activity is the flooding and also frequent cloud to ground lighting. We have warnings for Coke, Coleman, Runnels and Eastland all expiring by 7:30 am. With this system not looking to move much over the next few days we will continue to see scattered showers and thunderstorms. The scenario for the next couple days- an upper level disturbance right over our area along with a very moist air mass that continues to be fed by gulf moisture with our southerly and southeasterly winds. With the cloud cover being fairly extensive and the rain our temperatures will stay below average only hitting the mid 80’s. Overnight lows will be in the upper 60’s.

Not much changes through mid week as the same factors stay in place. We will keep in the rain chances through the end of the week with a tad warmer temperatures as we can hopefully break the clouds by the weekend.

Grab the umbrella and have a great day!

Friday, June 22, 2007

Weekend Forecast

Hello All!
Stagnant pressure systems wil dictate our weather pattern this weeks end. The good thing is that low temperatures will remain in the Big Country! The bad thing is that the elevated moisture values will keep the air feeling "heavy" and could create some showers. Any of these showers could produce heavy local rainfall amounts. The question is where will the low pressure finally migrate?? If the high pressure system over the 4-corners region decides to move, then will have to re-evaluate our forecast as the moisture will leave with it. Your weekend forecast is for isolated showers; highs in the upper 80's and lows near 70. Thanks for checking in with KRBC for your weather updates!
Pete

Friday Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

Overnight has again stayed very pleasant as the showers have stayed mainly to our north and east. Temperatures are also a bit warmer with mainly low 70’s.

If I could say same story different day I would. High pressure is still dominating to the west in the four corners and a disturbance is still spinning right over the Red River area. We are caught in between. With the disturbance not getting pushed to far away we will still keep in the chance for showers and thunderstorms. Again today the best chance will be in our Eastern counties as they are the closest to the low. On the flip side our western counties have the best chance of seeing more sunshine but still not ruling out an isolated thunderstorm all around. Temperatures are still staying a bit cooler, in the upper 80’s, thanks to the rain and also more cloud cover.

Through the weekend we have to keep in at least a slight chance for a shower or thunderstorm. With the moisture not going anywhere and the disturbance sticking around Texas we still have the ingredients available. As we push the disturbance more away we will be able to decrease the rain chances. Through the weekend we will say partly sunny skies with temperatures in the upper 80’s to low 90’s. Overnight lows will be in the upper 60’s.

Next week we will start off dry however by midweek our next system will be knocking at our door. Temperatures will be in the low 90’s with a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Get out and enjoy the sunshine when you can, however make sure to take the precautions- stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and if you hear thunder move your plans inside until the storm passes.

Have a great first weekend of summer!

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Thursday Evening Forecast

Good evening everyone! Once again we find low pressure off towards Wichita Falls and it's not moving very much. This has created lower temperatures than expected and being stationary, we get a better shot at rain. We'll go with a 40% chance tonight and a 30% chance for tomorrow. This evening the temperatures around the Big Country will again hover near 70 and tomorrow the temps will be in the upper 80's. Thanks for checking in with Abilene's First news for your weather information!

Thursday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly….

It was a very pleasant and calm overnight, the temperatures stayed in the upper 60’s to low 70’s with scattered clouds, a much different story from just 24 hrs before.

We kick off summer today around 1 pm and it looks like we will start it with enough sunshine to enjoy it and even some below average temperatures. Again high pressure is still dominating over the western part of the United States that is what usually calls for lots of sun and dry weather. However in the upper atmosphere we may have few disturbance spinning around the Wichita falls area which is going to keep in a 20 percent chance of rain today. Not ruling out a shower and thunderstorm across the area however I think the best chance will stay in our Eastern counties. For most of the day partly cloudy skies will dominate with temperatures in the upper 80’s to low 90’s.

Tomorrow a similar story is in place as the disturbance doesn’t seem to push away. Again keeping in the that chance for a shower however again we will see partly cloudy skies and temperatures back to around average in the low 90’s.

Through the weekend we will keep in a slight chance for a thunderstorm with generally partly cloudy skies and temperatures in the low 90’s.

Have a great day!

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Wednesday Evening Forecast

Hi Everybody. We see another day of complicated forecasting! The high pressure system to our west continues to create disturbances that could spur showers/thunderstorms across the Big Country. Although the moisture influx from the gulf is cut-off at present, a repeat of last nights storms can't be ruled out due to the elevated moisture values. Given we have seen some sunshine to warm things up a bit, we'll go with a 30% chance of rain for tonight and carry the chance for precipitation through tomorrow. The arrival of the storms is also complicated at this time. Lows around the area will hover near 70 and highs tomorrow will be in the lower 90's with moderate surface winds mostly from the southeast. Thanks for choosing KRBC for your weather information!

Stormy Wednesday Morning

Good Morning Everyone…

We had strong and severe thunderstorms roll through the area this morning with a line of storms that extended from Oklahoma to the Big Bend of Texas. With these storms the biggest threat was the winds which we saw with reports over 50 mph. A system like this is called a Derecho which is a widespread windstorm. The one good thing was that this was a very fast moving storm( moving around 35 mph to the south/southeast) and pushed through the Big Country from around 2 am and with the strongest storms existing by 6 am.

This morning we will keep in some lingering showers however most the activity has pushed through the Big Country. By the afternoon some of the cloud cover should break and we will get some sunshine with an isolated thunderstorm still possible. Highs should only make it into the upper 80’s with a few of us hitting low 90’s. Into the overnight we will see partly cloudy skies, muggy conditions and low 70’s.

Tomorrow, for our start of summer we will keep in plenty of sunshine and temperatures in the low 90’s. High pressure is on store for the rest of the week and weekend with a mix of sun and clouds and temperatures staying steady in the low 90’s with overnight lows in the low 70’s. Again, with the humidity temperatures will feel warmer so stay hydrated.

Have a good day!

Tuesday, June 19, 2007

Tuesday Afternoon Weathercast

Good evening everyone! Are we hot today? This is mainly due to an upper level high coming in from New Mexico. It is keeping the chance of showers away but not the moisture from the gulf. We can expect our high to top out in the lower 90's and our heat index to break the century mark due to the high moisture values. Winds will begin to die down this evening and we can expect lows in the lower 70's. Thanks for checking in with Abilene's first news - Take Care outside.
Pete

Tuesday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

The heat is on. If you were outside yesterday you noticed that the sun was back and it was staying strong as it felt like the mid to upper 90’s. Along with the heat we had a nice breeze with gusts over 20 mph.

Today high pressure is pushing back into the area and will dominate our weather over the next several days. That means temperatures steady in the 90’s and heat index values (what it actually feels like) in the upper 90’s to even low 100’s. We will continue to see plenty of sunshine with scattered clouds. Today and tomorrow I will not rule out an isolated thunderstorm mainly in our eastern counties however I think the chance is less than slight. Once again we will have the breeze with gusts over 20 mph. Overnight lows will be in the low 70’s.

Not much changes in the seven day forecast as this high is here to stay. As summer begins on Thursday it looks like we will start it with the sunshine and heat.

If you have outdoor plans make sure you drink plenty of water and apply plenty of sunscreen!

Have a great day!

Monday, June 18, 2007

Monday Evening Weather

Good evening all! Pete here...Looks like the chances of rain will be leaving our area for the next few days. With amount of moisture in the area, can't rule out a stray shower or two for our friends to the northwest of the Big Country - believe best chance at rain for our neighbors there will be Tuesday evening. The added moisture brings increased heat index values, so please watch yourselves when outside and remember to stay hydrated. Look for our low tonight near 72 and highs tomorrow in the lower 90's. Southerly flow continues to make itself at home with winds gusting, from the South, to 20+ mph on Tuesday. Thanks for checking in with Abilene's First News!

Monday Morning Forecast

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly

Yesterday morning across the Big Country we had a pretty cloudy and rainy Fathers Day. People had to dodge the rain showers to or from services. Although there we did see some clearing with a beautiful sunset, and enough time to get and get in your outdoor plans.

Through the overnight we will have stayed dry as the upper level low is continuing to push out of north central Texas, temperatures staying in the low 70’s.

Today the rain chances will be bumped down to 20 percent with most of us just seeing a start to some nice weather pushing in. As the low is completely pushed out the rain chances will end from West to East with most of us seeing just a mix of sun and clouds. Temperatures will be a bit warmer getting back to averages in the low 90’s.

Through the rest of the week a high pressure system will dominate- that means drier and warmer air. With the sunshine our temperatures will be in the low to mid 90’s.

By the end of the week we could see some breaking in the ridge which means a slight chance for showers and thunderstorms beginning Tuesday through Friday.

Have a great Monday!

Saturday, June 16, 2007

Saturday Update

Good Evening Everyone…

We had a break in the activity this morning however by the early afternoon the showers and thunderstorms picked up once again. Although we saw some severe storms last night we have not seen any in our viewing area yet today. The biggest threat with the storms has been flooding, we have picked up anywhere from an inch to near four inches in our southern counties. Right now we have a flash flood watch in effect for Brown and Comanche counties until Sunday afternoon.

Into the overnight we will see continue showers and thunderstorms, again the biggest threat being continued rainfall over places that are already soaked. Temperatures will be very mild in the mid 60’s with light winds out of the east southeast at 5-10 mph.

For Fathers Day we will drop the rain chances just a bit as we do see the low begin its eastward progression. However, we still will see partly to mostly cloudy skies and isolated showers with the better chance in our eastern counties. Temperatures will be a little warmer in the mid 80’s as we see a few breaks of sunshine.

For the start of our work week we will see rain chances diminish from west to east as that low fizzles out and pushes east ward. This will mean more sunshine and warmer temperatures in the low 90’s.

The rest of the week a ridge will dominate as we see low to mid 90’s with lots more sunshine!

Have a Happy Fathers Day!

Friday, June 15, 2007

Friday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

Showers and thunderstorms moved through the viewing area this morning. The bulk of the activity was in our southern communties. Another round of showers and thunderstorms developed this evening and has affected a large portion of the Big Country. There is a Severe Thunderstorm Watch in effect until 3 a.m. for Brown, Callahan, Coke, Coleman, Fisher, Haskell, Jones, Mitchell, Nolan, Runnels, Scurry, Shackelford, Taylor & Throckmorton counties. So far this evening the severe thunderstorms that we have experienced in Coke, Runnels & Taylor counties have been capable of producing quarter to golf ball size hail and winds in excess of 60 mph.

The cause of the rain today as well as this weekend is an upper level low. It is currently in southern Oklahoma around the Red River. The low is expected move south into or around our area tomorrow. Since it is cutoff from the main jet stream flow, it will likely just sit or slowly meander around the Big Country through Sunday. Severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall will be possible this weekend. We may see some flash flooding conditions depending on how much rain we see and how quickly we get it. The chance for rain on Saturday is 60% with only a 30% chance on Sunday. I decreased the chance on Sunday because the low may weaken a bit. With a chance for rain on Sunday, Father's Day, you may want to think about some backup indoor plans if you had any outdoor plans for Dad. Highs for the weekend will likely be in the low to mid 80s.

By Monday, the low should begin moving out of the area. We still have a 20% chance for lingering showers and thunderstorms. Highs look to reach the upper 80s to low 90s under partly cloudy skies.

An upper level high pressure ridge is expected to build into the area on Tuesday. It should hang around through at least the end of the next work week. Highs will return back to the low 90s under partly cloudy skies.

Have a super and safe Saturday!

Friday Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

Overnight more showers covered the Big Country as the upper level low is just to our North in Southwest Oklahoma. It will continue its progression toward the Big Country and eventually end up plopped right over us. What does this mean- plenty of showers throughout the weekend.

It will be a wet Friday commute for most people in our Southern counties-we are already seeing showers that are pushing southeast. We will continue to see the activity pick up across the area with temperatures again not pushing out of the upper 80’s with plenty of rain cooled air and cloud over. The showers and thunderstorms again will continue through the overnight with lows in the mid 60’s.

The weekend is shaping up to be a wet one. The low will sit right over Northern Texas and the Big Country bringing continuous showers. With the amount of activity we could see some localized flooding. We may be able to die down the activity by Sunday as the low should weaken however you may want to make some indoor back up plans for Fathers day. Temperatures will be in the lower 80’s Saturday with mid 80’s by Sunday.

Through the start to our work week we will keep in a few lingering showers however high pressure will build in and dry us out, getting temperatures back to the 90’s.

Have a great weekend and stay dry!

Thursday, June 14, 2007

Have The Rain Gear Ready

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had a cooler and drier day across much of the Big Country thanks to a weak cold front that passed by most of us. Highs were in the 80s except for our southeastern counties which made it into the 90s. Showers and thunderstorms fired up along the front in Brown and Comanche counties this afternoon. One of the storms reached severe limits in Comanche county since it was capable of producing penny size hail and winds in excess of 60 mph.

The front will fizzle out later tonight or by early tomorrow morning at the latest. Our main focus for the rest of the week will be an upper level low that is currently in western Kansas. The low is expected to move south and be just to our north tomorrow. It should meander around north Texas and the Big Country this weekend. Our chance for rain Friday is 40%. Saturday looks a little better at 50% with Sunday a little less at 30%. The reason for the drop in precipitation chance on Sunday is due to the low possibly weakening a bit. It is possible for any storms we see to reach severe limits. The main threats will be large hail and damaging winds. We may also see some heavy rain over the next three days. Portions of the viewing area could end up with 2 to 4 inches of rain before all is said and done. Highs for the next three days will likely be in the low to mid 80s thanks to all the cloud cover and rain.

There could be some lingering showers and thunderstorms on Monday when the low is expected to finally begin moving away from us or fizzling out. The chance for rain is 20%. Highs look to be in the upper 80s to low 90s.

An upper level high pressure ridge is now expected to build into the area on Tuesday. This means hotter and drier conditions for us. Highs should be in the low to mid 90s.

Have a fantastic Friday!

Thursday Morning Update

Good Morning Everyone from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

The beginning of the day yesterday was pleasant with lots of sunshine. Storms began to pop up by the middle of the afternoon and continued through the overnight with only a few becoming severe. We picked up just less than an inch here at the Abilene Regional Airport however some areas picked up from 2-3 inches.

This morning a cold front is making it pass through the area. We are seeing a wind shift with not to much a drop in temperatures as they will again start out in the upper 60’s to low 70’s. This front will stick around for the next day and wash out tomorrow. Along with the front the upper level low that we have continued to talk about since the beginning of the week is just to our North and will continue its progression southward into Texas panhandle. With disturbances being thrown from the low and the front over the Big Country we will keep rain chances in for the afternoon with the morning seeing partly cloudy skies. Temperatures will be in the upper 80’s with a few of us seeing the lower 90’s.

Through the overnight and the weekend rain chances will begin to increase. The models have been a little inconsistent over the past few days with the exact track of the low. Depending on the exact track will depend how much rain we will see. If it ends up to the west of the region we will see more rain, there for a wetter weekend, to the east a drier weekend. I have increased the rain chances as I think we will be leaning towards a more wetter and cloudy weekend. Along with that temperatures will be just below average with highs in the upper 80’s and lows in the upper 60’s.

Have a good day!

Wednesday, June 13, 2007

Wednesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was hot and humid across the area this afternoon with highs in the 90s. We also had some strong to severe thunderstorms develop along a weak dryline during the prime heating hours. They lingered into the evening thanks to outflow boundaries off of the day's earlier activity. The storms were capable of producing up to quarter size hail and winds in excess of 60 mph. Abilene Regional Airport reported a 55 mph wind gust around 8:23 p.m. this evening and a rainfall total of 0.94". Some portions of the viewing area received 2 to 3 inches.

We have a 30% chance for more showers and thunderstorms tomorrow. A cold front that moved into the area tonight will stall through Thursday night. An upper level low that is currently in southeast Colorado is expected to move towards the Red River tomorrow as well. This feature will send some disturbances our way. These two lifting mechanisms could trigger some rain for us. Highs look to be in the upper 80s to low 90s under mostly cloudy skies.

The front should fizzle out by Friday morning, but the low looks to remain either in or just north of the viewing area. Our chance of rain for the end of the work week is 40%. Highs should be in the mid to upper 80s under mostly cloudy skies.

The upper level low will be cut off from the main jet stream flow this weekend and is expected to meander around the state. If it ends up west of our area, it will be a very wet weekend for us. If it ends up east of us, then it will be drier. Right now, I am leaning towards the wetter scenario. The chance for showers and storms is 40% on Saturday and 30% on Sunday. Highs look to be in the mid to upper 80s under mostly cloudy skies.

By early next week, the low should have moved out of the area. However, a slight chance for rain will continue due to another cold front that is expected to arrive late Monday into Tuesday. Highs look to be in the in the upper 80s to low 90s.

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Wednesday Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

We saw showers across the area yesterday and even a few lingering ones this morning in our eastern counties.

Most of the cloud cover has pushed east as the upper level has made its progression eastward and is currently over the New Mexico, Texas panhandle area this morning. Today we will continue to see partly cloudy skies and a chance for thunderstorms. With a cold front and upper level low in the panhandle the best chance for thunderstorms will be in our eastern and northern counties however not ruling out an isolated one across the board. Temperatures will be in the low 90’s with lows in the upper 60’s.

The cold front will make its way towards the Big Country tomorrow upping the rain chances just a big and cooling the highs through the weekend back to the upper 80’s. With the upper level low looking to stick around for a while we will be seeing rain chances throughout the seven day forecast. Depending on the exact track will depend how much rain we will receive.

Have a great day!

Tuesday, June 12, 2007

Tuesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had a wide temperature range across the Big Country today. Highs were in the low 80s to mid 90s. The reason for the large difference was due to the cloud cover and rain that parts of the viewing area experienced. Some locations had mostly cloudy skies as well as showers and thunderstorms. Others, however, were partly cloudy and dry. Our rain today formed off of outflow boundaries from yesterday's activity that was to our west as well an upper level disturbance that was sent from the upper level low that is also to our west.

That same upper level low looks to be with us for a while. Tomorrow it should remain around northern New Mexico and southern Colorado. We will once again have a chance for showers and thunderstorms. That chance is 20% so most of the activity should be isolated. Highs look to be in the low 90s under mostly cloudy skies. Winds should be a little breezy from the south-southwest at 10 to 15 mph.

The upper level low is expected to move to the south-southeast towards the Texas panhandle on Thursday. A cold front should arrive in the area as well. With both of these features in or near the area, the chance for showers and thunderstorms will increase to 30%. It is possible for some of the storms to reach severe limits as well. Highs will be in the upper 80s to low 90s under mostly cloudy skies.

A 30% chance for rain continues Friday through Sunday due to the upper level low getting cut off from the main jet stream flow and hanging around the Lone Star State. Highs should be in the mid to upper 80s under mostly cloudy skies.

The low should finally dissapate or move out of the area by early next week. For now though, I'm going to leave a slight chance for rain in the forecast just in case the low decides to hang on a little longer than expected. Highs look to be in the upper 80s to low 90s.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Tuesday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

Across the Big Country the sunshine made temperatures climb into the upper 80’s and low 90’s yesterday. Showers and Thunderstorms remained in our Western and Northern counties with the bulk of us remaining dry.

Today will be much like yesterday with partly sunny skies and temperatures in the lower 90’s. The best chance for any activity will again be in our western counties however not ruling out an isolated thunderstorm across the area. This is because we will again have the northeast flow with storms. A high pressure is to our east and the upper level low to our west keeping plenty of moisture flowing in and also a few disturbances that have been sparking the storms. Overnight lows will be in the lower 70’s.

Tomorrow the upper level low that will be changing our weather will be moving closer to our area pushing over the central plains. Depending on the exact track of the low will depend on how much rain we could see toward the end of the week into the weekend. For now keeping rain chances at 20% chance from Thursday to Monday, with temperatures a bit cooler in the upper 80’s and lows in the upper 60’s.

Have a great day!

Monday, June 11, 2007

Chances For Rain All Week

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was very warm and humid across the Big Country today. Highs reached the upper 80s to mid 90s. The western and northwestern portions of the viewing area received some rain this afternoon thanks to an upper level low pressure system that is in southern Arizona.

That same low will move northeast into Colorado tomorrow and the central plains on Wednesday. There is a slight chance for showers and thunderstorms in the western and northern portions of the area on both days. Highs look to remain in the upper 80s to low 90s under partly cloudy skies.

Another upper level low is expected to develop to our north and become cutoff from the main jetstream. This means the low is going to hang out for a while. In fact, there is a 20% chance for rain Thursday through next Monday because of this system. Highs should be in the upper 80s to low 90s during this time period.

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Monday Morning Forecast

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

It was an overall pleasant weekend across the Big Country. Saturday our temperatures rebounded from the cooler Friday with the sunshine making its return through some clouds. Yesterday we saw a few morning showers and thunderstorms in our western counties with the rest of us dodging the activity and ending up with partly cloudy skies and warm temperatures in the upper 80’s.

Today and tomorrow we will see a similar pattern as most of see partly sunny skies and temperatures again in the upper 80’s. We can not rule out an isolated thunderstorm in our western counties however most of us will steer clear of any rain. Overnights will be pleasant with lows in the upper 60’s.

By mid week a change returns to the forecast. We will see the ridge that we have had in place broken as the trough will be centered over our region. Along with that we will see ruminants of an upper level low and a cold front approach the area. With these factors in place we will keep in rain chances from Wednesday night through the weekend, with the best chance right now Friday into Saturday. Temperatures will be in the upper 80’s to lower 90’s with overnight lows in the upper 60’s.

Have a great week!

Sunday, June 10, 2007

Sunday Weather

Good Afternoon All! We see the chances of showers/storms diminish across the big country starting today. This dry period will continue until the next front arrives mid-week. Doppler radar indicating some isolated showers out to the west portion of the viewing area, but believe we are in a stable atmosphere and this will prevent the development of severe weather. look for your lows tonight to hover near 70 and the highs tomorrow in the lower 90's. Humid conditions will again be prevalant tomorrow. Have a safe work week and thanks for using KRBC for your weather info!

Saturday, June 09, 2007

Saturdays Outlook

Hi Everybody! Pete here and we have the chance for some showers tonight! These storms should not be of the severe nature and will be limited to the western portions of the viewing area. Don't expect the showers to linger past midnight and then the enire area will be under the influence of high pressure until the end of next week. look to see lows tonight in the lower 70's and highs on Sunday in the lower 90's. Increased moisture values will continue the "mugginess" we have been experiencing the last few days. The Big Country's next best shot at rain comes on Friday of next week so it's an excellent time to get work outside accomplished. Thanks for choosing KRBC for your latest in weather and have a great day!

Friday, June 08, 2007

Friday Evening Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was much cooler for us today thanks to a cold front that passed through the area this morning. We only made it into the mid 70s to mid 80s for highs. It also felt more comfortable outside due to lower dewpoints. There were some showers and thunderstorms across portions of the area as the front passed us by this morning. Rainfall totals were only a few hundreths of an inch.

The cold front is expected to stall to our south this evening and then begin lifting to the north as a warm front during the overnight hours tonight. It should clear the area by late tomorrow morning. The chance for rain is 20%. It doesn't look like we will see any severe thunderstorms with this activity. The western and northern portions of the area may see a shower or thunderstorm tomorrow afternoon and night due to an upper level disturbance moving across eastern New Mexico and west Texas. Highs tomorrow should reach the mid to upper 80s under mostly cloudy skies.

There is a slight chance for rain in the far western and northern portions of the viewing area due to another upper level disturbance moving across eastern New Mexico and west Texas. The reason the chance is only slight is due to an upper level high pressure ridge that will be sitting in the eastern portions of the state. Highs are expected to reach the low 90s under partly cloudy skies.

We should be dry for the first half of next week. Another cold front may make a run at the area on Thursday, but for now I'm going to keep it dry for the second half of the work week. That front may not make it this far south. It is something we will be keeping an eye on through the coming days. Highs for Monday through Friday of next week should be in the low 90s.

Have a super and safe Saturday!

Friday Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

It was a sunny and warm day once again across the Big Country yesterday as temperatures boosted into the mid 90’s. Overnight we have stayed mostly clear but as the front has been approaching our area we have started to see some clouds build in.

The front pushed through the northern Big Country during the early morning hours and should be making its way through Abilene between 5 and 6 am. With it winds are gusting to over 20 mph as they switch coming from the North. We are also seeing a cool down in temperatures. For the rest of our Friday we should see clouds filter in and stick around for most of the afternoon. We could see showers and thunderstorms along the front as well. Temperatures will be a little more difficult to forecast- depending on your location in the Big Country we could get from the low 80’s in our Northern counties to the mid 80’s in our Southern counties where the cooler air will take longer to filter in as the front shouldn’t arrive till late morning.

Through the overnight we could see some lingering showers and thunderstorms with temperatures staying in the upper 60’s. Winds will begin to switch back to the southeast at 5-10 mph. Saturday morning we could see a few lingering storms as the front pushes back as a warm front. We also could see some afternoon thunderstorms with the heating of the day. Temperatures will get into the upper 80’s.

We will end our weekend with a slight chance for thunderstorms Sunday however the partly cloudy skies should make it alright for any outdoor plans. Through beginning of next we will keep the forecast dry with highs in the lower 90’s and lows in the low 70’s.

Have a great!

Thursday, June 07, 2007

Thursday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had another hot, humid and windy day here in the Big Country. Highs were in the low to mid 90s. For the third straight day here in Abilene, we set a new mark for highest temperature of the year so far. We made it all the way to 94 this afternoon. Winds were from the south-southwest at 15 to 25 mph.

A cold front is still expected to arrive in the northern portions of the viewing area by sunrise tomorrow morning. It should end up stalling just south of the area during the afternoon. This front will bring us the chance for showers and thunderstorms. That chance is 20% right now. Any storm we see tomorrow could reach severe limits. Cooler temperatures will arrive tomorrow with highs in the mid to upper 80s under mostly cloudy skies.

We will see another 20% chance for showers and thunderstorms on Saturday. This will mainly be in the morning due to lingering activity from Friday night. A daytime shower or storm can't be ruled out if a lifting mechanism ends up in the area. Highs should be a little warmer in the mid 80s to around 90.

The northern portions of the viewing area will still have a slight chance for rain on Sunday. Highs look to be in the low 90s under partly cloudy skies.

An upper level high pressure ridge is expected to build into the region next week. Hot and dry conditions are likely for the first half of next week. Highs should be in the low to mid 90s.

Have a fantastic Friday!

Thursday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly …

It was a warm and windy day across the Big County. The winds stayed strong with gusts near 40 mph and sustained winds up to 30 mph. However it was almost like a relief to feel the breeze because of the hot air. Plenty of sunshine jumped temperatures into the lower 90’s. Overnight has stayed very mild with temperatures in the mid 70’s.

Today we will drop the winds down but still see plenty of sunshine. Temperatures again will be in the mid 90’s with winds around 15-20 mph from the South. By the evening we will begin to increase the clouds with our approaching cold front. Overnight will be pleasant with lows in the low 70’s under partly cloudy skies.

We will start our weekend with mostly cloudy skies and chance for thunderstorms thanks to the front. It will also “cool” us back just a few degrees with those highs in the upper 80’s.

For the weekend we will keep in a slight chance for thunderstorms mainly in our Northern counties with temperatures in the lower 90’s and lows in the lower 70’s.

No problems for early next week as a dry pattern will be in place with partly cloudy skies.

Have a great day!

Wednesday, June 06, 2007

Wednesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was a hot and windy day here in the Big Country. We had highs in the low to mid 90s with winds from the south at 20 to 30 mph and gusts up to 35 mph.

Thursday looks to be similar to today. The difference will be warmer temperaturs and lighter winds. Highs should be in the mid 90s with a few spots reaching the upper 90s. Winds are expected to be from the southwest at 15 to 25 mph. Even though there will be enough moisture in place, thunderstorms are not likely due to a strong cap.

The cold front we have been mentioning for Friday now looks to make it just south of the area before stalling. This front may cause enough of a weakening in the cap to allow a few storms to develop. The chance for rain is 20%. Any of the storms we see could reach severe limits. Highs will be in the upper 80s to low 90s.

There will be a slight chance for rain in the northern counties this weekend. Highs should be in the low 90s under partly cloudy skies.

The first half of next week looks hot and dry with highs in the low 90s.

Have a terrific Thursday!

Wednesday Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

It was a beautiful day across the Big Country however if you were outside for anything length of time you noticed it was hot! That was because we finally hit 90 degrees, we actually made it up to 91- the first for the 2007 year. Overnight was beautiful with very comfortable temperatures in the lower 70’s and clear skies.

Today we will again see plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures in the mid 90’s. The one thing is its going to be windy. A very strong low in the Northern Rockies will help us see gusts up to 40 mph with sustained winds 20-30 mph. Be careful driving high profile vehicles or if you will be out boating on a local lake. Overnight again will be mostly clear with temperatures in the lower 70’s.

That low pressure system will track towards the east over the next couple days. Its associated cold front will push closer to us and eventually making a small impact Thursday night into Friday. This will put a chance for storms Friday with the best chance in our Northern counties. Into the weekend we will drop temperatures just a couple degrees however still staying in the lower 90’s. Thanks to the dryline that will be to our west this weekend we will keep in a slight chance for storms through Sunday.

Temperatures over the next seven days will be highs in the lower 90’s with lows in the lower 70’s.

Have a great one!

Tuesday, June 05, 2007

A Record Setting Day

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was a very warm afternoon here in the Big Country. In fact for some of us, it was the hottest day of the year so far. Highs were in the upper 80s to low 90s. Our high of 91 in Abilene was the first 90 degree day of the year. Today, June 5th, is the longest we have gone into the year before reaching 90. The previous record was May 31, 1900.

Wednesday looks to be windy as well as hot. A strong upper level low will move into the Rocky Mountains causing our winds to be strong from the south. Winds should be sustained at 20 to 30 mph with higher gusts. Highs will be in the low to mid 90s. There is a slight chance for thunderstorms in the western portions of the viewing area. The dryline will set up to our west. If we are able to break the cap, the layer of warm air aloft that inhibits thunderstorm development, there should be a few storms. The chance for rain is slight.

Thursday looks to be the hottest day of the week with highs in the mid 90s. Winds should still be strong from the south at 15 to 25 mph with higher gusts.

A cold front is expected to make its way close to the area before stalling Friday. We will have a slight chance for showers and thunderstorms with the best shot being in the northern portions of the area. The chance is slight for now, but could increase as we get closer to that time period. Highs look to be in the low to mid 90s.

The slight chance for rain will continue this weekend due to the front fizzling out close to the area as well as an active dryline. Highs for Saturday and Sunday are expected to be in the low 90s under partly cloudy skies.

It looks like we will remain in the low 90s for early next week as well. This means summer is making a bit of an early appearance since it doesn't officially begin for another 16 days.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Tuesday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

Yesterday started off a little dreary with showers around the area and mostly cloudy skies. By the afternoon you could have never guessed that it had been raining just three hours earlier- we had beautiful sunny skies and very warm temperatures. Although temperatures only hit the mid 80’s it felt a lot warmer in the sun.

Overnight most of the area was able to escape the showers as it passed just the west of our area. This morning we are waking up to temperatures in the mid 60’s with scattered clouds. The rest of the day will beautiful across most the area with plenty of sunshine and a few clouds. We could see an isolated storm towards our northern and western counties however most of us will stay dry. Temperatures will hit the upper 80’s with a few places hitting that 90 degree mark.

By tomorrow a strong pressure gradient will be in place across west Texas- which means a high pressure and a low pressure will be very close. This will kick up our winds with gusts over 30 mph. I do believe this will be out first 90 degree day here in Abilene. With plenty of sunshine it will definitely be feeling hot so grab the sunscreen and water and get out for some fun!

By the end of the week our weather pattern will be shifting from the northwest flow aloft to the southwest as a ridge moves into our area. Temperatures will be in the lower 90’s with lows in the lower 70’s.

Have a great day!

Monday, June 04, 2007

Hot Temperatures Finally Return

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We started off today mostly cloudy with some showers and thunderstorms, but by this afternoon it was partly cloudy and warm. Highs were in the low to mid 80s which is below average for this time of year.

It is possible for us to see more showers and thunderstorms during the overnight hours tonight. A weak disturbance that is currently in New Mexico and causing rain there will move towards our area and possibly bring precipitation here. It is because we are in a northwest flow aloft that this disturbance will move our way. The western portions of the area have the best shot at seeing rain tonight with a 30% chance. The rest of the area only has a 20% chance. Lows should be in the low to mid 60s.

Another upper level disturbance could cause some showers and thunderstorms tomorrow. The chance for rain is 20%. Highs are expected to reach the upper 80s to low 90s. The parts of the area that reach 90 tomorrow have already done so this year.

The rest of the area, including Abilene, will likely see their first 90 degree day of the year on Wednesday. Our pattern will be shifting with our flow aloft switching from the northwest to the southwest. Highs are expected to reach the low to mid 90s.

Thursday and Friday look to be hot and humid. Dewpoints should still be in the 60s so it will feel a little sticky outside. Highs will still be in the low to mid 90s. The reason we should not see any rain for the second half of the work week is due to the cap. This is the layer of warm air aloft that inhibits thunderstorm development. Remember to be careful in the heat. Take breaks, drink plenty of water, and wear light-colored clothing are just a few of the things that you should do to protect yourself from the hot temperatures.

A cold front will try to make it into the area this weekend, but it should stall north of the area. A few showers and thunderstorms can't be ruled out for the northern portions of the viewing area, but the chance for now is less than slight. Highs should be in the upper 80s to low 90s.

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Monday Morning Forecast

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

We had an active weekend across the area with scattered showers and thunderstorms mainly in the evening and overnight hours.

Sunday started with a picture perfect morning and early afternoon, great for getting to church services and laying out by the pool. In the afternoon clouds rolled in and showers and thunderstorms once again pushed into the area. It was the southern counties who received the rain first however our northern counties were not left out as some storms pushed through areas such as Haskell and Stonewall counties into the early morning hours.

This morning we are waking up to scattered showers around the Big Country with otherwise mostly cloudy skies. For the rest of the day we will see the clouds dissipate with again partly cloudy skies through most of the day. By the afternoon and evening we could again see showers and thunderstorms flare up as another disturbance makes its way into the area. Temperatures will be warm in the upper 80’, with lows in the mid 60’s.

Tomorrow will be our last carbon copy day-partly cloudy skies, chance for thunderstorms and highs in the upper 80’s with lows in the upper 60’s.

By Wednesday our pattern will be switching - we will bring in some drier and warmer air, with our winds coming back out of the south/southwest. With plenty of sunshine it will be a great way to start our weekend. Temperatures will finally get into the lower 90’s. Our first 90 of the season and it will be a record as this is the latest in the season that we have not had a 90 degree temperature. The last before this was May 31st in 1900.

Have a great week!

Friday, June 01, 2007

Friday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

Warm temperatures and mostly to partly cloudy skies were with us once again here in the Big Country. Strong to severe thunderstorms developed and moved through Knox, Stonewall, Haskell, Throckmorton, Stephens, Eastland, Comanche, Shackelford, Callahan and Jones counties. There were reports of nickel, quarter, and golf ball size hail. Another round of showers and thunderstorms is developing to our west and northwest and should move through portions of the area overnight.

We will have a 30% chance or rain during the day this weekend and a 40% to 50% chance at night. Moisture will remain in place Saturday and Sunday. Instability is going to be provided by warm afternoon temperatures. Highs look to reach the mid to upper 80s. Lifting mechanisms will include upper level disturbances, outflow boundaries from the previous day's thunderstorm activity and an approaching cold front. The reason our chance will be a little better at night is due to our northwest flow aloft. It is likely that some of the shower and thunderstorm activity that develops towards the panhandle will make it into the Big Country during the overnight hours. We could see some severe thunderstorms this weekend with the main threats being large hail and damaging winds. A few isolated tornadoes can't be completely ruled out. As always, we will keep a close eye on any storms that develop.

The chance for rain continues Monday and Tuesday, but at 20%. We could still see some showers and thunderstorms due to the same lifting mechanisms that will be here this weekend. Highs should be in the mid to upper 80s.

We are still expecting an upper level high pressure ridge to move into the area on Wednesday. This will cause our high temperatures to heat up into the low 90s for the second half of the work week.

On a side note, today is the first day of the 2007 Atlantic Hurricane Season. We have a new tropical storm in the Gulf of Mexico named Barry. It is expected to remain at tropical storm strength as it makes its way through Florida the first half of the weekend. Barry should weaken to a tropical depression as it moves along the Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina coastline during the second half of the weekend. This area desperately needs rain and Barry should help out with their rainfall deficit.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Friday Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

We saw thunderstorms push through our Northern counties overnight. However, this morning we are waking up to just a few scattered showers with temperatures in the lower 70’s.

We will see partly to mostly cloudy skies through the day today with thunderstorms again possible. The best time frame will be similar to the past few days- late afternoon into the overnight. Again we could see some of these storms become severe. Temperatures overnight will be in the upper 60’s.

Through the weekend a similar pattern will be in place. With northwest flow aloft we will see disturbances push into the Big Country. We will see partly cloudy skies with storms popping up mainly in the evening and overnight. By Sunday we will see a cool front push into the area helping to boost the rain chances just a bit.

Through early next week we will keep in a chance of storms with temperatures in the upper 80’s with lows in the upper 60’s.

By mid week a new pattern should be in place bring back plenty of sunshine with temperatures getting into the 90’s.

Have a great day!

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