Wednesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

The cold front we have been talking about this week arrived today. It stalled in the area this afternoon. Despite that lifting mechanism and an outflow boundary, warm temperatures and plenty of moisture, we didn't have any thunderstorms until this evening. The cap is what kept us from seeing thunderstorms until late in the day. It is warm air aloft that inhibits thunderstorms from developing. The isolated storms that developed reached severe limits this evening in Shackelford, Stephens, Callahan, Coleman, Runnels and Taylor counties. They were capable of producing quarter size hail and winds in excess of 60 mph.

The chance for showers and thunderstorms will continue tomorrow at 30%. Some of the storms could once again reach severe limits. The main threats will be large hail and damaging winds. The front will still be in or near the area as well as some outflow boundaries from today's activity. It is the northern half of the viewing area that has the best chance at seeing severe weather. Highs tomorrow look to reach the mid to upper 80s.

A series of upper level disturbances should move across the region Friday through Tuesday. With plenty of moisture expected to remain in place, showers and thunderstorms will remain possible. For most of those days, it will only be a 20% chance. However, Sunday has the best chance at 30%. It is not out of the question for there to be some isolated severe thunderstorms during this time period. Highs should be in the mid to upper 80s.

An upper level high pressure ridge looks to build into the region by next Wednesday. This would mean hot and dry conditions for us. Highs will likely be in the low 90s. If we have not done so by then, it would be the first time Abilene and many of us have experienced that temperature this year.

Have a terrific Thursday!