One Last Snow in 2009 - Interesting Beginning to January

From KRBC Chief Meteorologist Randy Turner .... 3:30pm Thursday, 12/31/2009

Winter had one more trick with a minor system bringing some light snow today to mainly the northern Big Country. The snow should be gone for the revelers and after midnight, skies clear to ring in the New Year.

New Year's Day looks nice with sunshine and highs around 52. Wind returns to the southwest and south at 5 to 10.

Saturday, a few clouds move in from the north during the day, with highs near 54.

Sunday, another cold front arrives, not expecting moisture with it, highs around 48.

Monday we get a secondary surge of cold, keeping highs Monday in the low 40's.

A first glance at the weather for this time next week, Thursday, January 7, shows a strong surge of cold air, our coldest of the season, coming into the Big Country. Stay tuned as we track this Arctic outbreak daily on KRBC and on bigcountryhomepage.com.

Happy New Year Everyone !!!

Randy

Interesting End To 2009, Nice Weather Brings in 2010:

Good Morning from KRBC Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* A cold front is arriving into the Big Country this morning and will progress south as we head through the day. A little minor disturbance will drift across the far northern counties with the front in the morning and will produce the chance for a light rain/snow mix generally north of Interstate 20 with the best chance chances across the far northern counties (we're talking about areas north of U.S. 380) of the Big Country. The majority of us will see the winds shift to the north with a mostly cloudy sky and cooler air arriving in the area. Highs will be in the middle 40s early but I suspect we'll drop into the 30s across the far northern counties and lower 40s by the afternoon as the cooler air drops into the region.

* Welcoming in 2010: New Year's Eve weather should be partly cloudy with lows in the middle 20s with the cooler air thanks to the front. Enjoy the full (blue) moon! New Year's Day will be nice with a mostly sunny sky and highs in the lower 50s. About the same deal for Saturday but highs will be in the middle 50s. By Sunday a cold front will cool us back down into the middle40s for highs.

* Next Week: Models show some cooler air trying to work toward West Central Texas and have been going back and forth on precipitation chances for the middle of next week. The runs this morningis still looking dry exept for Thursday, but the model keeps most of the moisture just to our east and northeast. Again this morning I don't have any precipitation chances in my forecast package for next week. Of course this could change as we get in new data.

* Blue Moon For New Year's Eve: (MSNBC) Once in a blue moon there is one on New Year's Eve. Revelers ringing in 2010 will be treated to a so-called blue moon. According to popular definition, a blue moon is the second full moon in a month. But don't expect it to be blue — the name has nothing to do with the color of our closest celestial neighbor.A full moon occurred on Dec. 2. It will appear again on Thursday in time for the New Year's countdown. A full moon occurs every 29.5 days, and most years have 12. On average, an extra full moon in a month — a blue moon — occurs every 2.5 years. The last time there was a lunar double take was in May 2007. New Year's Eve blue moons are rarer, occurring every 19 years. The last time was in 1990; the next one won't come again until 2028.

* Program Note: KRBC's Abilene Today and Abilene Midday will not be seen on Friday morning. From all of us on the morning crew we would like to wish you all a safe and Happy New Year's with your family!

* The Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern will continue to bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern here in the winter months. Increased wintry precipitation is possible depending on temperature trends. Equal chances of above or below normal temperatures remain possible for the area.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM local time.

* Join us for the latest news and weather updates in the mornings for Abilene & the Big Country on KRBC's Abilene Today at 6:00 A.M. and on Abilene Midday at 11:30 A.M. Our news and weather coverage continues in the afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 P.M. on KRBC.

* KRBC on Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. News updates from KRBC and our website BigCountryHomepage.Com are available via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Have a Safe & Happy New Year's...

Fast Moving System Visits Thursday

Sunshine Returns, Breezy & Warmer Today:

Good Morning from KRBC Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* So far this morning no issues have been reported with the roadways mainly because the cloud deck over the Big Country overnight has kept temperatures above the freezing mark. A bit of patchy fog in spots and I'd still say give yourself a little extra time as some of the back roads could have some snow left on them or a little amount of ice.

* The cloud deck and fog will burn off as we progress into the morning. Clouds will be on the decrease but the winds will pick up out of the southwest this afternoon. Daytime highs will warm up nicely into the middle to upper 50s today. We should see the clouds slowly build back in tonight but temperatures still above freezing in the middle and upper 30s.

* A cold front will arrive in the Big Country during the day tomorrow. A little weak disturbance will drift across the far northern counties with the front in the morning and there could be just enough for some light showers or even a few snow flurries up that way. We're talking about areas north of U.S. 380 only. The majority of us will see the winds shift to the north and northwest with cooler highs only into the middle 40s with a partly cloudy sky.

* Welcoming in 2010: New Year's Eve weather should be partly cloudy with lows in the middle 20s with the cooler air thanks to the front. New Year's Day will be nice with a mostly sunny sky and highs near 50° for most of us. About the same deal for Saturday as well but by Sunday a cold front will cool us back down into the lower 40s for highs.

* Next Week: Models are hinting at cooler air trying to work toward West Central Texas and have been going back and forth on precipitation chances for the middle of next week. The runs this morning are looking dry so I don't have any precipitation chances in my forecast package for next week. Of course this could change as we get new data later today.

* Blue Moon For New Year's Eve: (MSNBC) Once in a blue moon there is one on New Year's Eve. Revelers ringing in 2010 will be treated to a so-called blue moon. According to popular definition, a blue moon is the second full moon in a month. But don't expect it to be blue — the name has nothing to do with the color of our closest celestial neighbor.A full moon occurred on Dec. 2. It will appear again on Thursday in time for the New Year's countdown. A full moon occurs every 29.5 days, and most years have 12. On average, an extra full moon in a month — a blue moon — occurs every 2.5 years. The last time there was a lunar double take was in May 2007. New Year's Eve blue moons are rarer, occurring every 19 years. The last time was in 1990; the next one won't come again until 2028.

* The Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern will continue to bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern here in the winter months. Increased wintry precipitation is possible depending on temperature trends. Equal chances of above or below normal temperatures remain possible for the area.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM local time.

* Join us for the latest news and weather updates in the mornings for Abilene & the Big Country on KRBC's Abilene Today at 6:00 A.M. and on Abilene Midday at 11:30 A.M. Our news and weather coverage continues in the afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 P.M. on KRBC.

* KRBC on Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. News updates from KRBC and our website BigCountryHomepage.Com are available via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Have a great Monday...

Snow Ending - Patchy Ice Possible

From KRBC Chief Meteorologist Randy Turner ....

As of 3:30pm today, snow was rapidly coming to an end across the Big Country with only light flurries left in Abilene.

There was 1 to 2 inches of snow in most areas, but because temperatures were 32-34 most of the day, some of the snow slowly melted away.

I'm forecasting a low of 32 tonight in Abilene. Two things we have going for us tonight are wind direction and cloud cover. With a southwest wind and cloudy skies, temperatures should stay near freezing, and could actually warm up a degree or two overnight.

This means patchy ice is possible overnight and early Wednesday morning, especially on bridges and overpasses, so please drive with caution.

There were no major road issues in the Big Country as of mid-afternoon Tuesday and traffic was moving as normal. It will, however, be a good idea to slow down and leave a little early for your destination on Wednesday.

Clouds will gradually go away Wednesday afternoon, but make a quick return by early Thursday as a cold front moves through Abilene roughly around sunrise. A few snow flurries are possible across the northern Big Country Thursday with clouds for everyone else.

A short warming trend into the 50's Friday and near 60 on Saturday before the next cold front Sunday.

ARCTIC AIR will come charging into the area by Monday and we could see more snow by next Tuesday.

KRBC Weather Alert - Another Snow Event Today

Good Morning from KRBC Meteorologist Chris Whited....

*** Winter Weather Advisory in effect from 3:00 A.M. until 9:00 P.M. on Tuesday for Taylor, Callahan, Nolan, Shackelford, Nolan, Jones, Fisher, Haskell, Throckmorton, Brown, Coleman, Runnels, & Coke County. ****

*** Winter Weather Advisory in effect from 4:00 A.M. until 9:00 P.M. on Tuesday for Scurry & Mitchell County ****

*** Winter Weather Advisory in effect from 12:00 P.M. Tuesday until 9:00 A.M. Wednesday for Stephens, Eastland & Comanche County ***

*** Winter Weather Advisory in effect from 9:00 A.M. until 9:00 P.M. Tuesday for Stonewall County ***

*** Winter Weather Advisory in effect from 3:00 P.M. Tuesday until 6:00 A.M. on Wednesday for Knox County. ***

* Snow expected across West Central Texas Tuesday as an upper level disturbance moves into the southwestern half of West Central Texas early this morning producing wintry precipitation. Precipitation across West Central Texas will be in the form of snow. Significant snowfall is possible with this system as it moves east across the region on Tuesday. wintry precipitation will end across West Central Texas Tuesday night as the disturbance moves farther east.

* Snowfall amounts generally ranging from 2 to 4 inches are possible, with some isolated higher totals. Although identifying exactly where the greatest snowfall totals will occur remains uncertain. All current indicators point to mainly the Concho Valley and the Big Country, generally west of an Abilene to San Angelo line (roughly west of U.S. 277) for Tuesday. The northerneastern and far northern areas of the Big Country should see snow amounts generally ranging from 1 to 3 inches, which some isolated higher totals. Snow accumulation across the advisory area may impact travel. Highs total will range from the upper 20s and the lower 30s.

* The Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern will continue to bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern here in the winter months. Increased wintry precipitation is possible depending on temperature trends. Equal chances of above or below normal temperatures remain possible for the area.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM local time.

* Join us for the latest news and weather updates in the mornings for Abilene & the Big Country on KRBC's Abilene Today at 6:00 A.M. and on Abilene Midday at 11:30 A.M. Our news and weather coverage continues in the afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 P.M. on KRBC.

* KRBC on Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. News updates from KRBC and our website BigCountryHomepage.Com are available via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Stay tuned to KRBC for the lastest winter weather information...

SNOW SHOW on Tuesday

From KRBC Chief Meteorologist Randy Turner .....

Another winter storm is headed toward Abilene, coming in from the southwest.
This storm is a little different than the last, but could drop just as much snow, if not more.

The differences are there isn't quite so much cold air involved, but cold enough to make it snow. The wind shouldn't be as much of an issue this time around, keeping the blowing snow / blizzard scenario low.

Still, 2 to 4 inches of snow will be possible across the entire Concho Valley, Big Country and Central Texas.

The snow should work in from the southwest .. in San Angelo before sunrise ... in Abilene sunrise to mid-morning. After it starts, it should snow all day in Abilene gradually ending in the night time hours.

My temperatures are forecast at 29 tonight, 32 Tuesday, 28 Tuesday night and 40 on Wednesday. I'm going colder on highs Wednesday in anticipation that the snow plays a major role in limiting our warm-up Wednesday, even though we should have a southwest and west wind.

New Years Eve, another minor, fast-moving system comes out of the Rockies and down the Red River of Texas. This could bring some light snow to the northern Big Country, but it's rapidly gone by New Year's Day.

TRAVEL CONCERNS ... The snow will cause travel problems primarily between noon Tuesday and noon Wednesday. We should see improvement by Wednesday afternoon as the temperatures warm above freezing. If you don't have to go anywhere Tuesday, please stay home. If you do have to travel, make sure you have enough food and water in your car for each family member for a day, in case you become standed.

Snow Returns Late Tonight & Tuesday:

Good Morning from KRBC Meteorologist Chris Whited....

*** Winter Storm Watch in effect from Midnight on Tuesday morning until 6:00 P.M. Tuesday Evening for Taylor, Nolan, Callahan, Runnels, Coleman, Brown and Coke County.***

* Cool start this morning with temperatures into the 20s and 30s across West Central Texas with a clear sky. As we progress into the day today, expect clouds to slowly increase across the area. Daytime highs today will climb into the lower and middle 40s. Cloudy conditions expected to be in place for tonight with lows in the middle to upper 20s. Light snow is expected well after midnight across the area.

* Late Tonight & Tuesday: A winter storm expected to impact West Central Texas by Tuesday as an upper disturbance moves across Northern Mexico and into Texas late tonight on into Tuesday. Ahead of the system warm and moist air will be lifted up and over cold and dry air in place at the surface to produce precipitation in the form of snow. While exact accumulations are still uncertain significant accumulation of snow is possible across portions of West Central Texas on Tuesday. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for areas along and south of Interstate 20 until Tuesday evening.

* Later Week/Weekend: A bit of snow could linger early Wednesday morning and then we'll start to clear out with highs back into the middel 40s. Expect mostly clear to partly cloudy conditions for the rest of the week into New Years Eve and New Years Day with highs in the 40s Thursday and lower 50s on Friday. Overnight lows will be cold into the middle and upper 20s. No precipitation is expect at this time. The weekend looks nice with a mostly sunny sky, highs in the middle 50s and overnight lows in the lower to middle 30s.

* The Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern will continue to bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern here in the winter months. Increased wintry precipitation is possible depending on temperature trends. Equal chances of above or below normal temperatures remain possible for the area.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM local time.

* Join us for the latest news and weather updates in the mornings for Abilene & the Big Country on KRBC's Abilene Today at 6:00 A.M. and on Abilene Midday at 11:30 A.M. Our news and weather coverage continues in the afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 P.M. on KRBC.

* KRBC on Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. News updates from KRBC and our website BigCountryHomepage.Com are available via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Have a great Monday...

A Snowy Christmas Eve For West Central Texas:

Good Morning from KRBC Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* Winter Storm Warning in effect until for Taylor, Jones, Nolan, Callahan, Fisher, Throckmorton, Haskell, and Shackelford County until 3:00 P.M. this afternoon. Winter Storm Warning in effect for Scurry County until Noon. Winter Storm Warning in effect for Knox, Stephens and Eastland County until 6:00 P.M. this evening. Winter Weather Advisory in effect for Runnels, Coleman, Brown and Coke County until 3:00 P.M. this afternoon. Winter Weather Advisory in effect for Comanche County until 6:00 P.M. this evening.

* A powerful upper level storm system will move across West Central Texas this morning. The center will track across the Concho Valley and Heartland this morning. Heavy snow amounts are expected north of the track of the upper low across the Big Country. Blowing and drifting snow is likely due to strong northwest winds of 25 to 35 mph. Snow accumulations of 3 to 7 inches are likely in the Big Country today. Northwest winds of 25 to 35 mph may cause blowing and drifting of snow and could reduce visibilities for travelers. The heaviest snow will be during the morning hours, with snow tapering off in the early afternoon. Snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches are possible in the Northern Concho valley and Northern Heartland this morning. Snowfall will taper off in the late morning, with a light flurries possible in Coleman and Brown counties in the early afternoon. Northwest winds of 25 to 35 mph will accompany the snow which could cause some blowing and drifting of snow and reduced visibilities for travelers.

* Christmas: A very cold start for Christmas morning with lows in the upper teens and lower 20s with mostly clear conditions. Expect a mostly sunny day with highs in the upper 30s and lower 40s. There may still be a little snow left on the ground in some spots early on Christmas morning but it should melt away by afternoon.

* Weekend: Mostly sunny conditons will remain in place over the weekend. Temperatures will still be chilly into the middle 40s for daytime highs. Overnight lows will be down in the lower to middle 20s.

* Next Week: Another storm system is forecast to move into West Texas Monday evenign and will move across the Big Country Monday night and into the day on Tuesday. Long range models suggest a wintry mix is possible after midnight on Monday and to the day on Tuesday as temperatures hold into the 30s. We'll keep an eye on this system over the weekend and adjust the forecast accordingly.

* Program Note: KRBC's Abilene Today and Abilene Midday will not be seen on Friday morning. From all of us on the morning crew we would like to wish you all a safe and wonderful Christmas with your family.

* Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern will be in place and will bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern for the winter months. There is also a chance for increased winter precipitation depending on temperature trends. Data suggests equal chances of above or below normal temperatures, so more than likely the numbers will remain near normal for this time of year.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM.

* The latest on your forecast as well as news from around Abilene & the Big Country is coming up on KRBC's Abilene Today starting at 6:00 AM and on Abilene Midday later this morning at 11:30 AM. Our news and weather coverage continues also this afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 PM on KRBC.

* Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Merry Christmas...

KRBC Weather Alert - Winter Storm Warning

From the KRBC Weather Lab:

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SAN ANGELO TX
916 PM CST WED DEC 23 2009

...ACCUMULATING SNOW LIKELY ACROSS THE BIG COUNTRY LATE TONIGHT THROUGH EARLY AFTERNOON ON THURSDAY...

.A POWERFUL UPPER LEVEL LOW PRESSURE SYSTEM IS FORECAST TO TRACK ACROSS THE CONCHO VALLEY AND HEARTLAND EARLY IN THE DAY ON THURSDAY. MEANWHILE...COLD AIR WILL BE FILTERING DOWN INTO THE REGION ON THE BACK SIDE OF THE SYSTEM. A BAND OF WRAP-AROUND PRECIPITATION...IN THE FORM OF SNOW...IS EXPECTED TO DEVELOP LATE TONIGHT OVER THE LOW ROLLING PLAINS AND THE FAR NORTHWESTERN BIG COUNTRY AND THEN GRADUALLY SWEEP EAST ACROSS THE REMAINDER OF THE BIG COUNTRY DURING THE DAY ON THURSDAY. SIGNIFICANT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS ARE POSSIBLE...ALONG WITH BLOWING AND DRIFTING SNOW GIVEN STRONG NORTHWEST WINDS OF 25 TO 35 MPH.

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 3 PM CST THURSDAY...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN SAN ANGELO HAS ISSUED A WINTER STORM WARNING FOR HEAVY SNOW...WHICH IS IN EFFECT UNTIL 3 PM CST THURSDAY. THE WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IS NO LONGER IN EFFECT.

SNOW WILL DEVELOP ACROSS THE NORTHWEST BIG COUNTRY AFTER MIDNIGHT TONIGHT AND THEN SWEEP EAST ACROSS THE REMAINDER OF THE BIG COUNTRY THROUGH THE DAY ON THURSDAY. SLEET MAY MIX IN FOR A BRIEF TIME DURING THE TRANSITION FROM RAIN TO SNOW. IN ADDITION...NORTHWEST WINDS OF 25 TO 35 MPH MAY CAUSE BLOWING AND DRIFTING OF SNOW AND COULD REDUCE VISIBILITIES FOR TRAVELERS. TOTAL SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF 4 TO 6 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE IN THE WARNING AREA. THE SNOW WILL TAPER OFF BY EARLY AFTERNOON ON THURSDAY.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW ARE XPECTED
OR OCCURRING. STRONG WINDS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE. THIS WILL MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.


STERLING-COKE-RUNNELS-COLEMAN-BROWN-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...STERLING CITY...ROBERT LEE...BRONTE... BALLINGER...WINTERS...COLEMAN...BROWNWOOD
916 PM CST WED DEC 23 2009

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 3 PM CST THURSDAY...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN SAN ANGELO HAS ISSUED A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY FOR SNOW...WHICH IS IN EFFECT UNTIL 3 PM CST THURSDAY.

SNOW IS EXPECTED TO DEVELOP OVER THE NORTHERN CONCHO VALLEY AND HEARTLAND AFTER MIDNIGHT TONIGHT. SLEET MAY BRIEFLY MIX IN DURING THE TRANSITION FROM RAIN TO SNOW. NORTHWEST WINDS OF 25 TO 35 MPH WILL LIKELY ACCOMPANY THE SNOW...WHICH COULD CAUSE SOME BLOWING AND DRIFTING OF SNOW AND REDUCED VISIBILITIES FOR TRAVELERS. TOTAL SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF 1 TO 3 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE BEFORE THE SNOW TAPERS OFF BY EARLY THURSDAY AFTERNOON.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY MEANS THAT PERIODS OF SNOW WILL CAUSE TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES. BE PREPARED FOR SLIPPERY ROADS AND LIMITED VISIBILITIES...AND USE CAUTION WHILE DRIVING.

* Twitter Alerts: You can follow us on twitter anytime for weather updates, especially during the threat of severe or winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC on twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter

Stay tuned to KRBC for the latest weather information...

Abilene Area Weather Rapidly Getting Worse

From KRBC Chief Meteorologist Randy Turner ...

A WINTER STORM WARNING IS NOW IN EFFECT FOR ABILENE !!!!

A strong low pressure system was moving into the Big Country as of late Wednesday night.

This system is capable of significant rain for starters, but significant snow is possible by sunrise Christmas Eve morning.

A Winter Storm Warning means 4 to 6 inches of snow is possible by mid-afternoon Thursday. With wind from the north at 20 to 30, blowing and drifting of snow is likely too.

Travel from Abilene to points north is now discouraged, due to the anticipated snow event Christmas Eve.

Skies should be sunny by Friday, Christmas Day, but that doesn't mean it's going to warm up.

Highs Christmas Eve only around 36 (maybe) - with wind chills in the 20's.
Lows Christmas Eve night around 22.
Highs Christmas Day around 42 (maybe).

Monitor the weather closely on our website - bigcountryhomepage.com for updates.

You can also link to the San Angelo National Weather Service office at www.srh.noaa.gov/sjt

Merry Christmas !!

KRBC Weather Alert - Winter Weather Advisory

From the KRBC Weather Lab:

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SAN ANGELO TX
125 PM CST WED DEC 23 2009

...SNOW ACROSS THE BIG COUNTRY LATE TONIGHT AND THURSDAY MORNING...

.THE COMBINATION OF A STRONG UPPER LEVEL STORM SYSTEM AND ABUNDANT MOISTURE WILL BRING SNOW TO THE BIG COUNTRY LATE TONIGHT AND THURSDAY MORNING. SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF 1 TO 3 INCHES WILL BE POSSIBLE.

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO NOON CST THURSDAY FOR THE BIG COUNTRY...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN SAN ANGELO HAS ISSUED A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY FOR SNOW...WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO NOON CST THURSDAY.

SNOW WILL DEVELOP ACROSS THE BIG COUNTRY AFTER MIDNIGHT TONIGHT AND CONTINUE THURSDAY MORNING. THE PRECIPITATION MAY BE A MIXTURE OF RAIN AND SNOW FOR A FEW HOURS. SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF 1 TO 3 INCHES WILL BE POSSIBLE.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY MEANS THAT PERIODS OF SNOW WILL CAUSE TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES. BE PREPARED FOR SLIPPERY ROADS AND LIMITED VISIBILITIES...AND USE CAUTION WHILE DRIVING.

* Twitter Alerts: You can follow us on twitter anytime for weather updates, especially during the threat of severe or winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC on twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter

Stay tuned to KRBC for the latest weather information...

Rain & Some Snow Chances Return:

Good Morning from KRBC Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* Another cloudy day ahead for the Big Country, Heartland and Northern Concho Valley. Expect a few showers to start to develop by midday with increasing chances and coverage by this afternoon and evening. Highs today still warm in the lower to middle 60s. Breezy at times with a west wind. As we head into the night the low pressure area bringing the rain will lift north and east but some moisture will wrap around the system. As the moisture is wrapping around a cold front drops into the Big Country. Based on this trend and timing, a rain and snow mix is expect over the area for overnight and into the morning on Thursday, especially areas north of Interstate 20. There is a chance for some accumulation of snow for areas north of U.S. 380 over the northern counties (Along and north of a Aspermont - Haskell - Throckmorton line). The National Weather Service has suggested this morning a Winter Weather Advisory could be issued for the far northern areas (Haskell, Throckmorton, Stonewall and Knox) for overnight and early in the morning. No accumulation is expect for areas along the Interstate 20 or U.S 180 corridor areas (Central and Southern Big Country, Heartland and Northern Concho Valley). It will be turning sharply colder overnight with lows dipping into the lower 30s.

* Christmas Eve/Christmas: Once the precipitation ends Thursday morning, decreasing clouds and colder with highs in the very low 40s and a few spots staying in the upper 30s. A very cold night with lows in the middle 20s, so wrap up if your heading to the Midnight Mass or a midnight service at your church for Christmas. A cold Christmas morning and still a cool day with mostly sunny conditions with highs in the lower 40s.

* Weekend: Staying mostly sunny and cool for Saturday and Sunday. Daytime highs will be in the lower to middle 40s. Our overnight lows will remain well below freezing into the lower to middle 20s.

* Next Week: Still cool across the area for the start of the week with a few more clouds in the area. Highs in the middle 40s and lows in the middle to upper 20s. Model runs this morning bring the next decent front/system into the region come late Tuesday and into Wednesday. It may be cold enough for some wintry precipitation but for now I am going to opt out of adding any precipitation into my forecast package other than the brief mention here.

* Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern will be in place and will bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern for the winter months. There is also a chance for increased winter precipitation depending on temperature trends. Data suggests equal chances of above or below normal temperatures, so more than likely the numbers will remain near normal for this time of year.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM.

* The latest on your forecast as well as news from around Abilene & the Big Country is coming up on KRBC's Abilene Today starting at 6:00 AM and on Abilene Midday later this morning at 11:30 AM. Our news and weather coverage continues also this afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 PM on KRBC.

* Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Enjoy your Wednesday...

Still Warm & Windy, Changes Are Coming:

Good Morning from KRBC Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* Cloudy start this morning and we'll see the clouds in place the rest of the day and also into the night tonight. Breezy southwest winds will again warm us into unseasonably warm temperatures with high today into the upper 60s. These winds and the clouds in place will keep temperatures in the upper 40s and lower 50s overnight.

* A cloudy day on Wednesday with a front to the north and a system working toward Texas from the west. A few showers will be possible Wednesday evening with a few isolated thunderstorms also Wednesday night. As the low moves across, moisture should wrap around and drop back over the Big Country just as the strong cold front arrives. Expect rain overnight and into early on Thursday with some snow mixed in over the Big Country, especially north of Interstate 20. Accumulation for now is not expected for the majority but a few spots north of U.S. 380 (far northern viewing area) could see a light dusting. Ground temperatures are well above freezing so don't expect any road issues or the accumulation issues. A few snow flurries may be possible still Thursday morning but with time clouds will slowy begin to decrease. Highs on Wednesday in the middle 60s, lows Wednesday night in the lower 30s and highs in the low 40s on Thursday.

* Christmas Eve/Christmas: Once the precipitation ends Thursday morning, decreasing clouds and colder with highs in the very low 40s. A very cold night with lows in the middle 20s, so wrap up if your heading to the Midnight Mass or a midnight service at your church for Christmas. A cold Christmas morning and still a cool day with mostly sunny conditions with highs in the lwoer 40s.

* Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern will be in place and will bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern for the winter months. There is also a chance for increased winter precipitation depending on temperature trends. Data suggests equal chances of above or below normal temperatures, so more than likely the numbers will remain near normal for this time of year.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM.

* The latest on your forecast as well as news from around Abilene & the Big Country is coming up on KRBC's Abilene Today starting at 6:00 AM and on Abilene Midday later this morning at 11:30 AM. Our news and weather coverage continues also this afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 PM on KRBC.

* Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Have a great Monday...

Welcoming Winter With 70-Degree Temperatures:

Good Morning from KRBC Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* Today may be the day of the Winter Solstice but it's certainly not going to feel like winter across the Big Country, Heartland and Northern Concho Valley on this December Day. Expect a partly cloudy day with highs in the upper 60s and lower 70s across the area. Winds will also be on the increase, so expect breezy conditions the next few days. Expect a mostly cloudy night with still breezy conditions keeping us well above freezing into the upper 40s for lows. Expect about the same forecast to continue on Tuesday with highs once again in the upper 60s and breezy with a partly cloudy sky.

* Next cold front arrives by midweek bring a slight chance for showers across the Big Country, Heartland and Northern Concho Valley come Wednesday, Wednesday night and early on Thursday. For now expect we'll say it's an all rain event as the colder air is not expected to arrive until Thursday. Having said that we'll still keep an eye on the system and it's track across the area. If any moisture is able to wrap around the low then things could be interesting later this week. Otherwise much colder air will be here for Christmas Eve and Christmas with highs in the lower 40s and overnight lows in the middle 20s.

* Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern will be in place and will bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern for the winter months. There is also a chance for increased winter precipitation depending on temperature trends. Data suggests equal chances of above or below normal temperatures, so more than likely the numbers will remain near normal for this time of year.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM.

* The latest on your forecast as well as news from around Abilene & the Big Country is coming up on KRBC's Abilene Today starting at 6:00 AM and on Abilene Midday later this morning at 11:30 AM. Our news and weather coverage continues also this afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 PM on KRBC.

* Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Have a great Monday...

Nice Weekend Weather - Then ...

From KRBC Chief Meteorologist Randy Turner ...

You should find the weather to your liking this weekend in the Abilene area. Saturday's high near 55. Sunday near 64. Plenty of sunshine this weekend and dry weather.

The wind should pick up on Monday and Tuesday, gusty at times and from the southwest. That means the wildfire danger will increase on those days as highs climb even more, into the mid to upper 60's.

Changes begin on Wednesday as cooler air returns, followed by what looks like a shot of cold Canadian air, just in time for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day as highs struggle into the 40's.

Moisture with the cold air is a big question mark at this time, but doubtful. Watch this blog as we update conditions leading up to Christmas.

Nice Weekend Ahead, Changes Next Week:

Good Morning from KRBC Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* Chilly start this morning with temperatures into the 30s but we'll warm up nicely again by this afternoon into the upper 50s and lower 60s. A weak cold front arrives on this but don't expect much of a cool down behind this front. The airmass behind this front is Pacific in nature and not from the cold north. Highs will remain in the upper 50s with overnight lows will be near freezing and into the lower to middle 30s. Mostly sunny out there today with a few more clouds in the area by tonight.

* Weekend: Nice and mild over the weekend with high pressure in control. Expect a mostly sunny day for Saturday and Sunday with highs on Saturday in the middle 50s and low 60 during the day on Sunday. Overnight lows will hover near freezing.

* Next Week: Another cold front will arrive on Monday for early next week. New data this morning showing this front a little weaker so not much of a cool down with this front. An even stronger cold front arrives by the middle of the week. Long range models are suggesting a decent cold blast works down across the U.S. and right into Texas just in time for Christmas Eve and Christmas. Models are also bringing some moisture into the area around around late Wednesday and early on Christmas Eve. Very interesting forecast to watch the next few days...

* The Big Game In San Antonio: If you're heading south to San Antonio for the big championship game between Abilene and Katy the weather looks great! Of course the game is inside the Alamo Dome but on the outside expect a mostly sunny day with highs in the lower 60s. It will be partly cloudy with lows in the upper 30s Saturday night. Point here is perfect weather on the outside if you want to head down to the Riverwalk to celebrate the big win by our Abilene High Eagles! Good luck to our home team!

* Winter Begins Monday: I know it has already been cold enough but the official start for Winter is coming on Monday. The Winter Solstice will arrive for Abilene and the Big Country at 11:47 A.M. Central Standard Time. This is also the shortest day of the year and the longest night of the year!

* Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern will be in place and will bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern for the winter months. There is also a chance for increased winter precipitation depending on temperature trends. Data suggests equal chances of above or below normal temperatures, so more than likely the numbers will remain near normal for this time of year.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM.

* The latest on your forecast as well as news from around Abilene & the Big Country is coming up on KRBC's Abilene Today starting at 6:00 AM and on Abilene Midday later this morning at 11:30 AM. Our news and weather coverage continues also this afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 PM on KRBC.

* Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Have a nice weekend...

Nice Day Ahead For The Area:

Good Morning from KRBC Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* Chilly start this morning with temperatures well into the 30s but we'll warm up nicely again by this afternoon into the upper 50s and lower 60s. Expect a sunny day but we still have some clouds over the eastern and southeastern sections of West Central Texas today. A few more clouds should roll in late tonight, lows in the middle 30s across the area. A cold front arrives on Friday but don't expect much of a cool down behind this front. The airmass behind this front is Pacific in nature and not from the cold north. Highs will remain in the 50s, Overnight lows will be near freezing and into the middle 30s.

* Weekend: Nice and mild over the weekend with high pressure in control. Expect a mostly sunny day for Saturday and Sunday with highs on Saturday in the middle 50s and near 60 during the day on Sunday. Overnight lows will hover near freezing.

* Next Week: Another cold front will arrive on Monday for early next week. New data this morning showing this front a little weaker so not much of a cool down with this front. An even stronger cold front arrives by the middle of the week. Long range models are suggesting a decent cold blast works down across the U.S. and right into Texas just in time for late next week around Christmas Eve and Christmas. This is still a few days away so we'll watch how this turns out as we get closer to next week. Models also hint at there being some moisture in the area around this time, so we'll just have to wait and see what happens!

* Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern is taking shape and will bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern for the winter months. There is also a chance for increased winter precipitation depending on temperature trends. Data suggests equal chances of above or below normal temperatures, so more than likely the numbers will remain near normal for this time of year.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM.

* The latest on your forecast as well as news from around Abilene & the Big Country is coming up on KRBC's Abilene Today starting at 6:00 AM and on Abilene Midday later this morning at 11:30 AM. Our news and weather coverage continues also this afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 PM on KRBC.

* Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Enjoy your Thursday...

Hmmmm ... Very Interesting !

From KRBC Chief Meteorologist Randy Turner ...

Let's cut to the chase. IF forecast models verify... IF it gets as cold as it looks like it's going to get around Christmas Eve... IF we have a moisture supply ... we stand a better than average chance of seeing a White Christmas in the Big Country.

That is NOT to say it's going to snow on Christmas Eve ... but ... the long range forecast models have been fairly consistent in bringing a cold Arctic airmass down deep through Texas starting around Christmas Eve and leaving it here through New Year's Eve, give or take a day. Timing is still in question. The models are also trying to generate about three rounds of precipitation between Christmas Eve and News Years Eve.

You can bet the KRBC weather team is having fun prognosticating .. looking at all the data we can get our hands on ... honing in on the busy holiday travel period.

We will post updates here on our blog regularly so check back for the latest.

Thursday through Monday - pleasant weather, a few clouds moving through, dry, near normal temperatures for this time of year (mid 50's to near 60 daytime, low 30's nighttime).

Cold Start But Warmer For Today:

Good Morning from KRBC Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* Cold start this morning with temperatures well into the 20s but we'll warm up nicely this afternoon into the lower to middle 50s. Expect a mostly sunny day but a few more clouds could be possible across the Heartland and parts of the Northern Concho Valley. These clouds are spinning up from South Texas where a decent storm is taking shape bringing a good rain down south. Other than those few clouds we will not see anything of this system. A south wind will allow us to warm up today and temperatures will be above freezing tonight into the middle and upper 30s under a mostly clear sky.

* Warmer on Thursday with temperatures in the lower 60s and we'll ease back into the 50s on Friday and the weekend. A cold front arrives on Friday but don't expect much of a cool down behind this front. The airmass behind this front is Pacific in nature and not from the cold north. Overnight lows will be near freezing and into the middle 30s.

* Next Week: Another cold front will arrive on Monday and will bring cooler air for early next week. Highs drop back into the 40s and the overnight lows drop below freezing back into the 20s. Long range models are suggesting a decent cold blast works down across the U.S. and right into Texas just in time for late next week around Christmas Eve and Christmas. This is still a few days away so we'll watch how this turns out as we get closer to next week.

* Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern is taking shape and will bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern for the winter months. There is also a chance for increased winter precipitation depending on temperature trends. Data suggests equal chances of above or below normal temperatures, so more than likely the numbers will remain near normal for this time of year.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM.

* The latest on your forecast as well as news from around Abilene & the Big Country is coming up on KRBC's Abilene Today starting at 6:00 AM and on Abilene Midday later this morning at 11:30 AM. Our news and weather coverage continues also this afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 PM on KRBC.

* Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Enjoy your Wednesday...

Gradual Clearing & Cooler Today:

Good Morning from Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* A cold start on this Tuesday morning across the area with temperatures in the upper 20s and lower 30s across the Big Country, Heartland and the Northern Concho Valley. Quite cloudy early this morning but as we head into the day we'll see gradual clearning so expect it to be partly cloudy by the afternoon. Highs today will climb into the upper 30s and lower 40s. It will feel much cooler with a north wind, breezy at times. Mostly clear and cold tonight with lows in the middle 20s with the wind out of the northeast and a little lighter.

* Quite weather for the rest of the week with daytime highs near average for December with highs in the 50s and lower 60s and overnight lows near and just above freezing. The next cold front is due into the Big Country come Friday and that will set us up for another shot of cold air in time for the weekend when highs drop back into the 40s and overnight lows dip below freezing. Looking at the model runs, I don't see any rain chances in the forecast the next seven days.

* Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern is taking shape and will bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern for the winter months. There is also a chance for increased winter precipitation depending on temperature trends. Data suggests equal chances of above or below normal temperatures, so more than likely the numbers will remain near normal for this time of year.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM.

* The latest on your forecast as well as news from around Abilene & the Big Country is coming up on KRBC's Abilene Today starting at 6:00 AM and on Abilene Midday later this morning at 11:30 AM. Our news and weather coverage continues also this afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 PM on KRBC.

* Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Have a nice Tuesday...

Much Colder Tuesday

From KRBC Chief Meteorologist Randy Turner ...

Bottom line, it's going to feel cold all day Tuesday, about 30 degrees colder than it was Monday when the high reached 71 in Abilene.

The front will produce clouds, at least for part of the day Tuesday. Depending on how long they linger, temperatures will be very slow to warm.

We should start the day around 30 degrees and finish the day around 40.

Wind will be northeasterly at 10 to 15.

Well below freezing Tuesday night, in the middle 20's.

Temperatures the rest of the week will be in the low 30's at night and the mid to upper 50's during the day.

It also looks like another cold front drops in on Friday putting our weekend highs around 50.

I'm putting rain in the forecast starting next Monday, with a better chance on Tuesday and Wednesday. Cold temperatures will also flirt with the Big Country early next week. That means we're monitoring the situation closely for your travel plans next week leading up to Christmas.

Thanks for stopping by.

Warmer Temperatures Return This Weekend:

Good Morning from KRBC Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* Mostly cloudy conditions will remain in place for your Friday and into Friday night for Abilene and the Big Country. Highs today will range from the the upper 40s to the lower 50s. Temperatures tonight will be above freezing in the middle to upper 30s.

* Weekend: A gradual warming trend starts as we head into the weekend with temperatures back into the 60s by Saturday and even warmer on Sunday with highs in the 70s. Overnight lows will go back above freezing in the upper 30s and lower 40s. Mostly cloudy on Saturday then becoming partly cloudy by Sunday.

* Abilene & Wylie High Games: If your heading to Dallas or Waco for either the Abilene High or Wylie High football games on Saturday expect a mostly cloudy day at both stadiums. There is a chance for an isolated shower or two for both games. Highs in the 60s at both locations.

* Next Week: We're still into the upper 60s and lower 70s on Monday but cooling back into the 40s Tuesday and 50s on Wednesday with our next cold front arriving. No rain with the front based on the model data this morning. We're back below freezing for lows by the middle of next week.

* Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern is taking shape and will bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern for the winter months. There is also a chance for increased winter precipitation depending on temperature trends. Data suggests equal chances of above or below normal temperatures, so more than likely the numbers will remain near normal for this time of year.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM.

* The latest on your forecast as well as news from around Abilene & the Big Country is coming up on KRBC's Abilene Today starting at 6:00 AM and on Abilene Midday later this morning at 11:30 AM. More news and weather coverage continues this afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 PM on KRBC.

* Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Have a nice weekend ...

High Clouds Return, A Bit Warmer Today:

Good Morning from Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* Another very cold morning out there to start the day with temperatures averaging between 18-25 in the area. Easterly winds are making it feel a bit colder than the actual air temperatures. High level clouds will drift back into the area and today so expect a mostly sunny day with highs a little warmer today thanks to a southeast wind. High temperatures will be in the lower to middle 40s. Partly cloudy and still cold tonight with lows in the upper 20s and lower 30s.

* Weekend: A gradual warming trend starts as we head into the weekend with temperatures back into the 60s by Saturday and even warmer on Sunday with highs in the lower 70s. overnight lows will go back above freezing in the upper 30s and lower 40s.

* Next Week: We're still into the upper 60s and lower 70s on Monday but cooling back into the 50s Tuesday and Wednesday with our next cold front arriving. No rain with the front based on the model data this morning. We're back below freezing for lows by the middle of next week.

* I wanted to take a minute to thank everyone who stopped by our KRBC Studio on Wednesday and donated food and money for the annual KRBC Share Your Christmas Food Drive. We have a great year as we collected nearly a half a million pounds of food items (including money donations as $1 = 6.25 lbs of food). Remember you can donate food and money to the Food Bank of West Central Texas any time of the year, not just during our food drive in December each year.

* Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern is taking shape and will bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern for the winter months. There is also a chance for increased winter precipitation depending on temperature trends. Data suggests equal chances of above or below normal temperatures, so more than likely the numbers will remain near normal for this time of year.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM.

* The latest on your forecast as well as news from around Abilene & the Big Country is coming up on KRBC's Abilene Today starting at 6:00 AM and on Abilene Midday later this morning at 11:30 AM. More news and weather coverage continues this afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 PM on KRBC.

* Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Enjoy your Thursday ...

Sunny, Breezy & Cold Today:

Good Morning from KRBC Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* A cold moved across the area overnight and it's very cold out there this morning with lows averaging between 20-28 in the area. Northeast winds are making it feel much cooler than the actual air temperatures. Plenty of sunshine today but it will be breezy and chilly with highs only climbing into the middle 30s. Clear and cold tonight with lows in the upper teens and lower 20s.

* Mostly sunny and a bit warmer for Thursday with highs in the upper 40s and cold tomorrow night with lows near freezing. A gradual warming trend starts as we head into the weekend with temperatures back into the 50s and 60s during the daytime and overnight lows above freezing in the upper 30s and 40s. Another cooling trend will come early next week as colder air returns by Tuesday.

* Share Your Christmas Food Drive: Don't forget the annual KRBC Share Your Christmas Food Drive is today from 7:00 A.M - 7:00 P.M right here at the KRBC Studio located at 4510 South 14th. Stop by and drop off your food items (and money donations as well) as we collect for those in need this holiday season. All your food donations will go to the Food Bank of West Central Texas.

* Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern is taking shape and will bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern for the winter months. There is also a chance for increased winter precipitation depending on temperature trends. Data suggests equal chances of above or below normal temperatures, so more than likely the numbers will remain near normal for this time of year.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM.

* The latest on your forecast as well as news from around Abilene & the Big Country is coming up on KRBC's Abilene Today starting at 6:00 AM and on Abilene Midday later this morning at 11:30 AM. More news and weather coverage continues this afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 PM on KRBC.

* Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Have a great Tuesday ...

Freezing Drizzle/Fog Early, High Winds & Warm This Afternoon:

Good Morning from Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* Freezing drizzle and fog will continue this morning across the Big Country, Heartland and the Northern Concho Valley. We're had a number of accidents reported across the region with this mess sticking to bridges, overpasses and vehicles. Temperatures are hovering this morning in the upper 20s and lower 30s. The threat for freezing drizzle and fog will continue through mid-morning. We have other winter weather related information on our main station website located at BigCountryHomepage.Com including any school delays/closings that have reported to our news department.

* As we head into midday and the afternoon the clouds will begin to break up. A powerful storm system will lift out of the Four Corners area and move across the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles this afternoon. The pressure gradient with this system will bring extremely high winds to the Big Country, Heartland and Northern Concho Valley into midday and especially this afternoon. High Wind advisories are in effect for for the western counties of the Big Country and the Concho Valley as we could see wind gusts out in these areas to 60 mph later today. Most everyone else will see winds between 20-40 mph with some gusts up to 50 mph at times. These gusty southwest winds will warm us up very quickly into the middle to upper 60s and in some spots the lower 70s down south this afternoon. The low moves out dragging a cold front through overnight.

* The above mentioned front will cool us back into the 40s for highs on Wednesday and Thursday and get us down to freezing Wednesday and Thursday morning. The rest of the week looks quiet. We'll slowly begin a warming trend heading into the weekend with highs back into the 50s and 60s and overnight lows back above freezing into the middle and upper 30s. Expect a partly cloudy conditions for this period.

* Share Your Christmas Food Drive: Don't forget the annual KRBC Share Your Christmas Food Drive is coming up on Wednesday from 7:00 A.M - 7:00 P.M right here at the KRBC Studio located at 4510 South 14th. Stop by and drop off your food items (and money donations as well) as we collect for those in need this holiday season. All your food donations will go to the Food Bank of West Central Texas.

* Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern is taking shape and will bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern for the winter months. There is also a chance for increased winter precipitation depending on temperature trends. Data suggests equal chances of above or below normal temperatures, so more than likely the numbers will remain near normal for this time of year.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM.

* The latest on your forecast as well as news from around Abilene & the Big Country is coming up on KRBC's Abilene Today starting at 6:00 AM and on Abilene Midday later this morning at 11:30 AM. More news and weather coverage continues this afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 PM on KRBC.

* Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Have a great Tuesday ...

Chilly Today, Warm & Extemely Windy Tomorrow:

Good Morning from Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* After a mild Sunday we're all waking up to a very cold morning thanks to a cold front that moved through overnight. Mostly clear this morning but clouds will return later into the day giving us a mostly cloudy day. It will be cool as well as highs will only climb into the upper 30s and lower 40s. Becoming cloudy tonight the front lifts back northward as a warm front. Patchy fog and drizzle are possible overnight and into early on Tuesday before we clear up.

* A powerful storm system will lift out of the Southwestern U.S. and move across the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles. The pressure gradient with this system will bring extremely high winds to the Big Country, Heartland and Northern Concho Valley into the day on Tuesday. A High Wind Watch is already out for the western counties of the Big Country. Winds will blow out of the southwest between 20 and 40 miles per hour, with some gusts up to 50 mph. A few clouds and much warm with those winds as highs climb into the upper 60s. The low moves out dragging a cold front through overnight Tuesday which will cool us back into the 40s for highs on Wednesday and Thursday. and get us down to freezing Wednesday and Thursday morning.

* The rest of the week looks quiet. We'll slowly begin a warming trend heading into the weekend with highs back into the upper 50s and lower 60s and overnight lows back above freezing into the middle and upper 30s. Expect a partly cloudy day Friday - Sunday.

* Share Your Christmas Food Drive: Don't forget the annual KRBC Share Your Christmas Food Drive is coming up on Wednesday from 7:00 A.M - 7:00 P.M right here at the KRBC Studio located at 4510 South 14th. Stop by and drop off your food items (and money donations as well) as we collect for those in need this holiday season. All your food donations will go to the Food Bank of West Central Texas.

* Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern is taking shape and will bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern for the winter months. There is also a chance for increased winter precipitation depending on temperature trends. Data suggests equal chances of above or below normal temperatures, so more than likely the numbers will remain near normal for this time of year.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM.

* The latest on your forecast as well as news from around Abilene & the Big Country is coming up on KRBC's Abilene Today starting at 6:00 AM and on Abilene Midday later this morning at 11:30 AM. More news and weather coverage continues this afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 PM on KRBC.

* Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Enjoy your Monday...

Snow Bands Staying South, Warming Up This Weekend

Good Moring from Meteorologist Chris Whited...

* Winter Weather Advisory in effect until Noon for Coleman, Brown, Runnels, Coke and Comanche County of the Heartland and Northern Concho Valley. The main band of snow has been well south of Interstate 20 this morning in a band from Midland & Odessa to San Angelo to Brady. A light band of snow will be possible across the Big Country but any measurable snow accumulation should now be well south of Interstate 20. This is why the National Weather Service dropped Sweetwater, Abilene and Baird areas from the Winter Weather Advisory early.

* Areas of light snow will continue this morning with any accumulation well south of the Interstate 20 corridor down across the Concho Valley and the Heartland. A few light snow showers and flurries are possible north of I-20 though midday. Snow will end my midday with clouds breaking up by the late afternoon. Highs today will range from 35-39 for all of us. Partly cloudy this evening then mostly clear overnight and very cold with lower 20s across the arae.

* Weekend: Winds will pick up out of the south warming us up to near 50° on Saturday and we're near 60° on Sunday with mostly sunny conditions. Overnight lows will be into the 30s. Not to bad for weekend activities and for those of you heading out to do some shopping.

* Winter Outlook: The Climate Prediction Center indicates a moderate El Niño pattern is taking shape and will bring West Central Texas a wetter pattern for the winter months. There is also a chance for increased winter precipitation depending on temperature trends. Data suggests equal chances of above or below normal temperatures, so more than likely the numbers will remain near normal for this time of year.

* Drought Information: For the lastest drought information for the state of Texas please visit the U.S Drought Monitor website by clicking here. The data is updated by the government every Thursday morning around 7:30 AM.

* Join us on television this morning for the latest on your forecast as well as news from around Abilene & the Big Country on KRBC's Abilene Today starting at 6:00 AM and on Abilene Midday later this morning at 11:30 AM. More news and weather coverage continues this afternoon at 5:00 and tonight 6:00 and 10:00 PM on KRBC.

* Twitter: You can follow us on twitter anytime for quick weather updates, especially during severe weather and winter weather events affecting the Big Country by visiting the KRBC Weather Twitter. You can also check out news updates from KRBC via twitter also by visiting the Big Country Homepage Twitter.

Enjoy your weekend...