Wintry Precipitation Possible This Holiday Weekend

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

Warm above average temperatures continued for us today. Highs were in the upper 70s to low 80s. We also had windy conditions with sustained south-southwest winds of 15 to 25 mph. Gusts were as high as 30 to 35 mph. I hope you enjoyed the warm conditions today because BIG changes are coming our way beginning tomorrow.

A strong cold front is expected to move through the area overnight tonight into tomorrow morning. This will be the coldest air we have seen so far this fall season. Highs for Wednesday look to range from the low 50s in the northern part of the viewing area to around 60 in our southern commmunites. These numbers will be set in the morning with temperatures dropping into the 40s throughout the day. It will feel even colder with winds from the north at 15 to 25 mph. There is a slight chance of a few showers as the front goes by.

Our first freeze of the fall season will be on Thanksgiving morning. It won't be much warmer in the afternoon as highs only reach the low to mid 40s. An upper level disturbance may move through the area Thursday night. We could see a rain/snow mix or possibly all snow. If it is all snow, it will likely be flurries or light snow showers. There is still a question as to whether enough moisture will have built back into the area behind the front so the chance of precipitation is only 20%.

There is a better chance of wintry preciptation Friday night through Sunday. An upper level trough is expected to dig into the Four Corners region. An upper level low should develop in the trough and move across the Lone Star State this weekend. The strength and path of this system will have an impact on just how cold it will be and how much precipitation we see. For now, lows during this time period will be in the low 30s with highs in the upper 30s to low 40s. This means we could see snow during the night and rain or a wintry mix during the day. We have had warm temperatures lately so our ground temperatures are warm. Any snow we see would have a tough time sticking to non-elevated surfaces. As of now if we see any trouble spots, it would likely be on bridges, overpasses and other elevated surfaces. We know many of you will be out and about shopping and traveling this weekend. We will continue to keep a close eye on this system and keep you updated with the latest forecasts.

Warmer and drier conditions are expected for early next week.

Have a wonderful Wednesday and travel safe!