Tuesday, April 03, 2007

Tuesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was another warm day across the Big Country, but there was a wide range of high temperatures. Sweetwater and Snyder were in the mid 70s. Abilene made it to 80s. Brownwood and Comanche were the warm spots with highs in the upper 80s. The reason for the difference in highs was due to a cold front moving through the area. It moved through the northern portions of the area during the late morning hours, but didn't make it to the southern communites until late this afternoon. Showers and thunderstorms developed along the front, but not until it was past the viewing area.

We will be much cooler tomorrow with highs in the low to mid 60s under mostly cloudy skies. There is a slight chance for an isolated shower or thunderstorm in our eastern and southeastern communites. The cold front that passed us by today will stall to our south and east. Rain is possible where it stalls due to a situation we call overrunning. Warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico will be forced over the cold, dry air and that is where clouds, showers, and thunderstorms should form.

The Big Country will be under a northwest flow in the upper levels of the atmosphere Thursday through the weekend. Disturbances are expected to periodically move through the area during this time period. We have a 20% chance for rain Thursday and Sunday. The best chance for showers and thunderstorms looks to be Thursday night through Saturday at 40%. Highs on these days will range from the upper 50s to mid 60s.

Warmer and drier conditions are expected to return early next week.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Tuesday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly

Despite a bit of wind yesterday it was an amazing day across the area with plenty of sunshine and temperatures in the lower 80’s. The summer like conditions will return once again for today before a big cool down begins to knock the temperatures back.

Today we will see plenty of sunshine around the Big Country with our winds continueing out of the South although they shouldn’t be as breezy as yesterday. Temperatures will again make it into the lower 80’s. There is the slight chance of an isolated thunderstorm along the dryline with the best chance in our Eastern counties where the dryline should end up. We will see the winds shift later in the day as a cold front begins to make its way into the area and overnight lows will drop to around 50 degrees.

The next few days will be much cooler with high temperatures in the lower 60’s. Overnight lows will stick in the mid 40’s. Tomorrow we will see an increase in cloud cover with a 20 percent chance of a shower or thunderstorm. The best chance for activity however will be getting into the weekend when we increase the rain chances to 30 percent.

Have a great day and enjoy the sunshine!

Monday, April 02, 2007

Cooler Temperatures On The Way

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We continued with the warm and dry conditions across the Big Country today. Highs reached the low to mid 80s under mostly sunny skies. Winds were breezy from the south-southwest which helped moisture to return to the area.

The warm temperatures will continue tomorrow with highs in the low to mid 80s. Winds shouldn't be as breezy, but they will shift to the northwest late in the day thanks to a cold front. With the dryline expected to be in the region before the front, there is a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. It is during the evening hours that the rain chance increases to 20%.

The 20% chance for showers and thunderstorms continues through Wednesday morning. Temperatures will be much cooler thanks to the cold front from the night before and mostly cloudy skies. Highs look to be in the low to mid 60s.

On Thursday, we will have another 20% chance for showers and thunderstorms as an upper level low builds to the west. It could send a disturbance our way and that is why there is a chance for rain. Highs should be in the mid 60s under mostly cloudy skies.

The best chance for rain this week looks to be Friday through early Saturday. With the low expected to move close to or possibly over the area, there is a 30% chance for showers and thunderstorms. A second shot of cooler air should move in as well on Friday, so highs will likely be in the low 60s. After some rain early on Saturday, we should clear out during the rest of the day. That means highs should be able to reach the mid to upper 60s.

Easter Sunday looks pleasant right now with mostly sunny skies and highs in the low 70s.

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Big Cool Down in the Forecast

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

We had a beautiful weekend across the Big Country temperatures yesterday making it into the lower 80’s. If you enjoy the warm temperatures get out today or tomorrow because a big cool down is in the forecast.

Today we will see mostly sunny skies with temperatures hitting into the mid 80’s. We could see slight chance of a Thunderstorm into the late afternoon/early evening hours along a dry line that will push into the Big Country. However, once the afternoon heating goes away we will see the chance diminish and only a few clouds into the overnight. Temperatures will be very mild in the low 60’s with breezy winds overnight out of the South.

Tomorrow will be very similar to today with a slight chance for a thunderstorm along the dryline. Temperatures again will hit in the mid 80’s and we will see few scattered clouds. The big difference will come tomorrow night when lows will drop into the lower 50’s with a cold front making its way through the area.

The cold front will bring much cooler temperatures for the rest of week. With moisture overrunning the front we should see mostly cloudy skies come mid week and an increased chance for showers and thunderstorms Wednesday and Thursday. Temperatures for highs will only be in the lower 60’s, with lows in the upper 40’s.

Have a great week!

Friday, March 30, 2007

A Calm Weekend On Tap For Us

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

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

Have a super Saturday!

Thursday, March 29, 2007

More Rain Likely For Friday

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

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

Have a fantastic Friday!

A Stormy Morning

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly,

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

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

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

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

Have a great day and be safe!

Wednesday, March 28, 2007

Strong To Severe Thunderstorms Possible

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

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

Have a terrific Thursday!

Tuesday, March 27, 2007

Tuesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

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

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Tuesday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly

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

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

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

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

Have a wonderful day!

Monday, March 26, 2007

Monday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Monday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

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

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

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

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

Have a great week!

Friday, March 23, 2007

Chance For Rain This Weekend

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

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

Have a super Saturday!

Friday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly...

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

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

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

Have a wonderful weekend!

Thursday, March 22, 2007

Thursday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

Have a fantastic Friday!

Thursday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

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

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

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

Have a great day!

Wednesday, March 21, 2007

Wednesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

Have a terrific Thursday!

Wednesday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly...

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

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

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

Have a great day!

Tuesday, March 20, 2007

Tuesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Monday, March 19, 2007

Monday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

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

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Monday Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly...

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

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

Have a great week!

Friday, March 16, 2007

Wonderful Weekend On Tap For Us

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

Have a spectacular St. Patrick's Day!

St. Patty's looking nice!

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly...

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

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

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

Thursday, March 15, 2007

Thursday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

Have a fantastic Friday!

Thursday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly...

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

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

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

Have a great day!

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Wednesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

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

Have a terrific Thursday!

Wednesday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly...

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

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

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

Have a great day!

Tuesday, March 13, 2007

Tuesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Tuesday Morning Update

Good morning from morning meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

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

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

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

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

Have a great day!

Monday, March 12, 2007

Monday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Wet Start to the Work Week

Good morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly….

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

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

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

Have a great day and drive safe!

Friday, March 09, 2007

Rain Chances Looking Better

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

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

Have a super Saturday!

Friday Morning Forecast

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly….

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

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

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

Have a good weekend!

Thursday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

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

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

Have a fantastic Friday!

Thursday, March 08, 2007

Picture Perfect

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

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

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

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

Have a great day!

Wednesday, March 07, 2007

Wednesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

Have a terrific Thursday!

Beautiful Conditions Continue

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

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

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

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

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

Have a great day!

Tuesday, March 06, 2007

Tuesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Tuesday Morning Update

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly

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

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

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

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

Have a great day!

Monday, March 05, 2007

Monday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

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

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

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Spring like week ahead!

Good Morning from Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly

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

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

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

Have a great week!

Friday, March 02, 2007

Cool Temperatures This Weekend

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

Have a super Saturday!

Thursday, March 01, 2007

Thursday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

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

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

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

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

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

Have a fantastic Friday!

Wednesday, February 28, 2007

Wednesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was a warm day for us despite the clouds that we had throughout the morning and early afternoon. Highs were in the upper 70s to low 80s. Winds were strong from the south-southwest. There were reports of blowing dust and dirt in the western portions of the viewing area.

A cold front will move through the Big Country tonight bringing cooler temperatures to the area for tomorrow. No precipiation is expected with the front. Windy conditions will remain with us tonight and into the day tomorrow. Winds should be west-northwest at 15 to 25 mph with higher gusts. There are Lake Wind Advisories in effect for most of the area tomorrow so you may want to put off any trips to the lake. With low relative humidity values also expected tomorrow, Red Flag Warnings are in effect for every county in the viewing area except Knox and Stonewall. Please do all you can to prevent fires. Highs for Thursday look to be in the low to mid 60s.

Another cold front on Friday should reinforce the cooler air already in place. It will be another dry frontal passage for us. Highs look to be in the upper 50s to low 60s under mostly sunny skies.

Below average temperatures will remain on Saturday. Highs should be in the mid to upper 50s under mostly sunny skies.

Sunday through next Wednesday look dry with a gradual warming trend.

Have a terrific Thursday!

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Tuesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had a warm and windy day across the area. Highs ranged from the upper 70s in Sweetwater and Snyder to the upper 80s in Brownwood and Comanche. Abilene's high was 84. Winds were breezy from the west and southwest.

Wednesday looks to be a warm and windy day. Highs should be in the upper 70s to mid 80s. The reason our temperatures may be a little cooler is if we are partly cloudy and not mostly sunny. A strong low pressure system should develop to our northwest over western Kansas and the Texas and Oklahoma panhandles. This will cause us to have strong west-southwest winds tomorrow. Winds look to be sustained at 15 to 25 mph with gusts as high as 35 to 40 mph. This could cause some blowing dust and dirt in our area by the afternoon. With warm temperatures, strong winds, and low relative humdity values expected, a Red Flag Warning has been issued for all counties in the viewing area expect Stephens, Eastland, and Comanche counties. Please do all you can to prevent fires tomorrow since conditions will allow any wildfires to spread rapidly. There will be better moisture in the eastern portions of the viewing area. With the dryline possibly close by, it is not out of the question for a stray shower or thunderstorm to develop in that area. The chance though is less than slight.

A cold front is expected to move through the Big Country early Thursday morning. This will cause our highs to cool down into the low to mid 60s. With dry air already in place, rain doesn't look possible. Windy conditions will remain with sustained west-northwest winds of 15 to 25 mph and higher gusts.

Below average temperatures should be with us Friday and Saturday. Highs look to be in the upper 50s to low 60s under mostly sunny skies.

Mostly sunny skies will remain with us Sunday through next Tuesday. Highs are expected to warm back up into the mid to upper 60s.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Monday, February 26, 2007

Monday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was a beautiful day across our area with sunny skies and highs in the mid 70s to low 80s. We started off with breezy conditions this morning, but by this afternoon the winds had become lighter.

Tuesday looks to be another gorgeous day with highs in the upper 70s to low 80s. Breezy conditions should return to the region with winds from the south at 10 to 20 mph. The airmass will likely remain dry so our fire danger will be elevated tomorrow. Please do all that you can to prevent fires. Don't burn anything right now. Don't throw cigarette butts out of the window. These are just some of the things that can be done.

A strong storm system is expected to build northwest of us. This will cause us to have windy conditions Wednesday and Thursday. The winds won't be as strong as this past weekend, but we could see sustained speeds of 20 to 30 mph with higher gusts. Highs for Wednesday should reach the mid to upper 70s before a cold front arrives that night into Thursday morning. Partly cloudy skies look to develop Wednesday, but there will likely not be any rain due to a lack of moisture in the area. Highs on Thursday will be in the low to mid 60s thanks to the cooler air that will be in place.

Friday through Monday should be dry with mostly sunny skies and highs in the 60s.

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Sunday, February 25, 2007

Warm Start To The Work Week

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We have had two very different days this weekend. Saturday was very windy with wind gusts in the 50 to 60 mph range. Visibilities were reduced to a mile or less in many locations because of a dust storm. Today was pleasant with sunny skies across the Big Country and highs in the low to mid 60s. Winds were not nearly as strong as yesterday.

Monday and Tuesday will be warm with highs in the mid to upper 70s and mostly sunny skies. Breezy conditions should be with us on both days. Since our airmass is expected to remain dry, the fire danger will be elevated so please be careful.

Wednesday looks to be warm with highs in the low to mid 70s. A cold front and possibly a dryline will likely move through the area late Wednesday. Our highs on Thursday should be in the low to mid 60s. There is a slight chance for showers and thunderstorms in mainly the eastern portions of the viewing area. The main question for our rain chance this week is moisture. If enough of it returns to the region, then we could see some rain. If not, it will likely be dry. Stronger winds are expected for Wednesday and Thursday so we could reach critical fire weather conditions.

Another cold front looks to move through the Big Country on Friday. This will reinforce the cooler air already in place. Highs for Friday through next weekend should range from the upper 50s to mid 60s.

Have a magnificent Monday!

Friday, February 23, 2007

Severe Storms Possible Tonight, Very Windy Tomorrow

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

There was quite a bit of cloud cover across the region for most of the day. This helped us to have cooler temperatures with highs in the upper 60s to low 70s. Breezy south winds were also experienced.

It is possible for us to see some strong to severe thunderstorms tonight. A cold front will overtake a dryline that is to our west and move across the area. Combine that with plenty of moisture and a strong upper level trough and you have the ingredients needed to see showers and thunderstorms. We could see some damaging winds, large hail, and maybe a few isolated tornadoes with any severe thunderstorms that develop. In fact, Knox, Stonewall, Haskell, Throckmorton, Fisher, Jones, Shackelford, Stephens, Eastland, Callahan, Taylor, and Nolan counties are under a Tornado Watch until 6 a.m. Saturday morning. It will be windy with winds from the south at 20 to 30 mph. Stronger gusts are expected. Lows look to be in the upper 40s to low 50s.

Very strong winds will be likely Saturday. Sustained west winds should reach 30 to 45 mph with gusts of 50 to 60 mph. With winds this strong, we have a high wind warning in effect for most of the viewing area. Also, the air behind the cold front is very dry. Critical fire weather conditions will be met, so most of the area is also under a Red Flag Warning for Saturday. Please be very careful and do all that you can to prevent fires. This includes not throwing cigarette butts out of the window, putting off any welding you had planned, and not parking in grassy areas. If you are in a high profile vehicle, be very careful on the road especially those that are going north-south. Areas of blowing dust are possible tomorrow as well. Highs should be in the mid to upper 60s.

Sunday through Tuesday look dry with mostly sunny skies. Highs should range from the low 60s for the second half of the weekend to the low 70s by Tuesday.

A cold front is expected to move through the area late Wednesday bringing cooler temperatures to the area for Thursday and Friday. There is a slight chance for rain on Wednesday.

Have a super and safe Saturday!

Thursday, February 22, 2007

Severe Thunderstorms Possible Tomorrow

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had a beautiful day here in the Big Country today. Highs were in the mid 70s to low 80s. Winds weren't too bad for much of the day, but by late this afternoon it was a bit breezy from the south-southwest. Moisture began returning to the region, so there was an increase in clouds.

Mostly cloudy skies are expected to be with us through the day tomorrow. This will help cause cooler temperatures with highs in the upper 60s to low 70s. Winds will be from the south at 20 to 25 mph. A dryline should develop in the western portions of the state. It looks to move through our area tomorrow night bringing us the chance for showers as well strong to possibly severe thunderstorms. With the jetstream expected to be in the region during this time period as well, the ingredients are there for us to possibly experience severe weather. The Storm Prediction Center has most of us under a slight risk for severe weather. It looks like Knox, Stonewall, Haskell, and Throckmorton counties are under a moderate risk. This means you have a better chance at seeing damaging winds, large hail, and possibly some tornadoes than the rest of us. As always, we will be keeping a close eye on this situation and keeping you up to date on the latest.

Any showers or thunderstorms in the area should come to an end early Saturday morning. With a strong low pressure system just to our north, we will have very strong winds with us for the first half of the weekend. Sustained winds of 30 to 40 mph look likely with gusts of 50 to 60 mph. With winds expected to be that strong, most of the viewing area is under a High Wind Watch. This means that there is a potential for a hazardous high wind event. There could be areas of blowing dust in the Big Country as well. Any areas that receive rain Friday night will quickly dry back out on Saturday with winds that strong. The entire viewing area is under a Fire Weather Watch for Saturday. This means that critical fire weather conditions are possible. Please be careful with the fire danger. Don't throw cigarette butts out of the window. Put off any welding that you may have had planned. Also, don't park your vehicle in grassy areas. With a cold front moving through the area during the day, highs are expected to be in the mid to upper 60s.

Sunday through Tuesday look dry and less windy. Highs will be in the 60s.

Another cold front is expected to move through the region on Wednesday bringing cooler temperatures to the area on Thursday. There is a slight chance for rain the middle of next week.

Have a fantastic Friday!

Wednesday, February 21, 2007

Warm & Dry...For Now

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

The spring-like temperatures continued for us today with highs in the mid to upper 70s. It was a pleasant day with sunny skies and winds not as strong as yesterday.

Thursday will be another beautiful day for us with mostly sunny skies. It should be a little breezy at times with winds from the south-southwest at 10 t0 15 mph. Highs are expected to reach the mid to upper 70s.

An upper level trough looks to move into the region Friday. A surface low pressure system should develop in the Texas and Oklahoma panhandles. This will bring windy conditions back to the Big Country. Winds look to be 20 to 30 mph with gusts of 35 to 40 mph. With moisture back in place and a dryline expected to move across the region late Friday, we have a chance for showers and thunderstorms. Some of these storms could be severe. In fact, the Storm Prediction Center has most of the area under a slight risk for severe weather already. We are still 36 to 48 hours away from possible severe weather conditions and a lot can change between now and then. It is a situation we are keeping a close eye on. Highs for Friday look to reach the low to mid 70s.

Any showers and thunderstorms we have in the area should come to an end Saturday morning. Strong winds will bring cooler and drier air into the region. Highs should reach the mid to upper 60s.

Sunday through next Wednesday look dry with highs in the low to mid 60s.

Have a terrific Thursday!

Tuesday, February 20, 2007

Tuesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had another warm and windy day across the area. Mostly sunny skies and strong west winds helped us to have highs mainly in the mid to upper 70s. Snyder and Sweetwater were a little cooler with highs in the upper 60s.

The well above average temperatures will remain with us Wednesday and Thursday. Highs look to be in the low to mid 70s. It should not be as windy the next couple of days.

Showers and thunderstorms are possible Friday through early Saturday as a cold front moves through the area. Windy conditions look to return for the end of the work week and continue through the first half of the weekend. Highs on Friday are expected to be in the mid to upper 70s with highs on Saturday in the mid to upper 60s.

Sunday and Monday look dry with temperatures remaining a little bit cooler. Highs should be in the upper 50s to mid 60s.

Another cold front is expected to arrive Monday night into early Tuesday. This front looks to cool our high temperatures down into the low 50s. There is a slight chance for rain on Tuesday as well.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Monday, February 19, 2007

Warm & Windy Conditions This Week

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was a beautiful day across the Big Country except for the strong southwest winds. Those winds combined with the mostly sunny skies to give us highs in the mid to upper 70s. Most of the area was under a Lake Wind Advisory, Wind Advisory, or Red Flag Warning during the afternoon hours.

The warm and windy conditions look to continue tomorrow under partly cloudy skies. Highs will reach the low to mid 70s with winds from the west at 15 to 25 mph. With strong winds and warm temperatures again on Tuesday, the fire danger will be elevated so be careful.

A weak cold front, really more of a wind shift line, is expected to move through the area tomorrow as well as a weakening upper level low. With these two lifting mechinisms moving into the region, you would think that we have a good chance for rain. That is not the case however as we will likely have a lack of moisture. A shower or thunderstorm can't be completely ruled out late tomorrow and into Wednesday, but the chance is less than slight. Overall, mostly sunny skies look to dominate on Wednesday with highs in the low to mid 70s.

The well above average temperatures will continue on Thursday with mostly sunny skies and highs in the mid to upper 70s.

Skies should turn partly cloudy on Friday, but highs will still manage to reach the upper 70s. It is not out of the question for a few locations to reach 80.

A cold front is expected to move through the area Friday night into early Saturday. There is a slight chance for rain during that time period. Highs for Saturday and Sunday will likely cool down into the mid to upper 60s.

Yet another cold front looks to move through the Big County next Monday cooling our temperatures back down into the 50s for highs with a slight chance for rain.

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Friday, February 16, 2007

Pleasant, But Breezy Weekend

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

Despite a very cold start this morning with temperatures in the teens across the area, we warmed up nicely this afternoon. Highs were able to reach the low to mid 60s thanks to sunny skies, a dry airmass, and strong southwesterly winds.

A cold front will move through the area overnight bringing us cooler temperatures for Saturday. Highs look to be in the mid 50s to around 60. Winds should remain breezy from the north-northwest. No precipitation is expected with the front.

Sunday looks to be pleasant with mostly sunny skies and highs in the upper 50s to low 60s. Winds will remain breezy, but from the south-southwest.

A little more moisture should work its way back into the region by Monday, President's Day. This will likely lead to partly cloudy skies. With stronger south-southwest winds, highs look to be in the mid 60s to around 70.

A dryline and cold front are expected to move through the Big Country on Tuesday. At this time, there is a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms that could increase as we get closer to that time period. Highs look to be in the mid 60s to around 70.

There could be a few lingering showers on Wednesday morning. Highs should be in the low to mid 60s under partly cloudy skies.

Thursday and next Friday look dry with highs remaining in the low to mid 60s.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Thursday, February 15, 2007

Warmer Temperatures On Tap For Us

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We started off with cloudy skies and some light snow this morning, but by this afternoon it was mostly sunny. Despite the sun, most of us were only able to make it into the low 30s for highs. Brownwood managed to make it to 36.

It will be another cold night tonight with lows in the upper teens to low 20s. With a hard freeze across the area, be sure you protect your pets, plants, and pipes.

Friday looks to be much warmer with highs in the upper 50s to low 60s. The reason we will see a rise in temperatures is due to winds from the southwest at 15 to 25 mph.

A weak cold front should move through the region late Friday which will cool us down a little bit for the weekend. Highs on Satuday and Sunday look to be in the upper 50s. No precipitaiton is expected since this frontal passage will be a dry one.

Monday, President's Day, looks to be pleasant with partly cloudy skies and highs in the low to mid 60s.

Our highs should remain in the low to mid 60s Tuesday through next Thursday. An upper level low and cold front are expected to affect the region Tuesday into early Wednesday. This will bring us a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Have a fantastic Friday!

Wednesday, February 14, 2007

A Cold Valentine's Day

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! I hope you have had a good day and you were able to stay warm. Highs were mainly in the upper 20s, but a few locations such as Brownwood and Comanche were able to make it into the low to mid 30s. Cloudy skies dominated the area as we saw flurries and light snow showers off and on through the day. Accumulations have ranged from a dusting here in Abilene to a report of an inch in Hermleigh which is southwest of Snyder.

Flurries and snow showers will continue off and on through the overnight hours tonight. Accumulations still look to be light. Most of the area will likely see a dusting to quarter of an inch at best, but some locations may get half an inch to an inch. The county with the best shot at an inch of snow is Knox county which is under a Snow Advisory until 4 a.m. Thursday morning. Any location that receives snow accumulation will probably experience some slick roadways, bridges and overpasses. Be careful if you going to be on the roads tonight or early tomorrow morning. Lows tonight should be in the upper teens to low 20s.

The flurries and light snow should taper off during the morning hours on Thursday. Skies look to clear in the afternoon and it is possible for us to see a little sunshine late in the day. Highs should be in the low to mid 30s, but could be warmer if we break the clouds early enough in the day.

Mostly sunny skies and breezy conditions will return on Friday. Despite a cold start that morning, we should be able to warm up into the upper 50s to low 60s in the afternoon. This will be due to southwesterly winds.

A cold front is expected to move through the area late Friday night into early Saturday morning. This front is Pacific in nature and therefore will not cool us down as much as the one we had move through earlier this week. Highs should be in the mid to upper 50s.

A warming trend looks to continue Sunday through next Wednesday. Highs are expected to range from the upper 50s to mid 60s. There is a slight to 20% chance of rain Monday through Wednesday as an upper level low moves towards the region.

Have a terrific Thursday!

Tuesday, February 13, 2007

Snow Possible Across The Big Country

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had much cooler temperatures today thanks to the cold front that moved through last night. Skies were mostly cloudy this morning, but by this afternoon it was mostly sunny. Highs were in the 40s.

An upper level trough is set up over the southwestern portions of the country right now. It will be moving eastward tonight through early Thursday. Upper level disturbances are expected to affect the Big Country during that time period. With temperatures remaining at or below freezing tonight through early Thursday, we have a chance for snow. At this time, there are no advisories or warnings in effect for the viewing area. Accumulations, if any, look to be light. Most of us could see a dusting to half an inch. In the southern communities, a dusting is probably the best that will be seen. Temperatures may get just above freezing in those locations which will limit snow totals. The portion of the viewing area that has the best shot at seeing an inch is in Knox and Stonewall counties.

Flurries and light snow showers should come to an end by early Thursday afternoon. With mostly cloudy skies expected to continue that day as well as cold arctic air remaining in place, highs should only make it into the mid 30s.

We warm things up dramatically on Friday with highs in the upper 50s to low 60s. That will be thanks in part to winds from the southwest.

A cold front should move through the region late Friday night into early Saturday. This looks to be a dry frontal passage and temperatures will only cool down a little bit. Highs are expected to be in the mid 50s.

We will likely return to and above seasonal averages for temperatures Sunday through Tuesday. There is a slight chance for rain on Monday.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Monday, February 12, 2007

Cold Temperatures On The Way

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We started off this morning with cloudy skies as well as showers and thunderstorms. By this afternoon, it was sunny and warm. Highs today were in the low to mid 70s.

A cold front moved through the Big Country this evening. Our temperatures will be much colder for the next few days. Mostly cloudy skies should return overnight and remain into tomorrow. Highs look to be in the low to mid 40s with windy conditions from the north-northeast.

It will be a cold Valentine's Day for us this year. Highs should be right around the freezing mark under mostly cloudy skies. There is a 30% chance of wintry precipitation. It will mainly be snow and some sleet, but freezing rain can't be ruled out for the southern portions of the viewing area. Accumulations, if any, look to be light right now. Looking at this situation overall, the temperatures should be cold enough and lift will be provided by the disturbances. The main question is moisture. At this time, I'm a little concerned that there may not be enough for us to see much more than a few flurries. There are no winter advisories or watches for the area at this time. We will continue to keep you updated with the latest on this next possible round of wintry weather.

There could be some lingering flurries or light snow showers Thursday morning as the disturbance moves out of the area. Skies will remain mostly cloudy with highs in the mid 30s.

Friday through Monday look dry with temperatures returning closer to seasonal averages.

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Friday, February 09, 2007

Friday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

Overcast skies and fog continued across the Big Country today. This helped to keep us chilly with highs in the mid 30s to low 40s. The other reason temperatures remained below average is due to a cold front that remains stalled to our south and west.

This front will stay put through tomorrow which will keep our temperatures chilly. With mostly cloudy skies and areas of morning fog expected to continue, highs look to be in the low to mid 40s. If the clouds and fog hold strong like they have the past couple of days, then most locations may not make it past the upper 30s for a high. There is a slight chance for some drizzle and showers as an upper level disturbance moves through the area.

The cold front that has been stalled to our south and west is expected to move back to the north as a warm front late Saturday into early Sunday. This means warmer temperatures for the second half of the weekend. Despite mostly cloudy skies, highs look to be in the mid to upper 60s. There is a slight chance for drizzle and showers on Sunday.

A dryline and upper level disturbance should move through the area on Monday. This will bring us a 30% chance for showers and thunderstorms. Highs look to be in the upper 60s to low 70s under partly cloudy skies.

A cold front is expected to move through the Big Country late Monday into early Tuesday. This front will have arctic air behind it so below average temperatures will return. Highs look to be in the low to mid 40s under partly cloudy skies.

There is a chance for us to see wintry precipitation Tuesday night through Thursday morning. Our best chance will likely be on Wednesday, Valentine's Day. That chance is 30% right now, but could increase or decrease as we get closer to that time period. Highs on Wednesday should be in the low to mid 30s. We will continue to keep you updated on this latest shot at wintry precpitation.

Have a super Saturday!

Thursday, February 08, 2007

Thursday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

What a difference a day makes! Yesterday, it felt like spring. Today, winter came back with full force. With fog and overcast skies most of the day, we only managed to make it to the mid 30s to low 40s for highs.

Mostly cloudy skies should remain across the area tonight and through the day tomorrow. There will likely be some areas of fog overnight and into the morning hours Friday. Lows look to be in the upper 20s to low 30s Thursday night. If there is enough mist overnight, it is not out of the question to have a light glaze on elevated objects such as your car. Well above freezing temperatures are expected tomorrow as highs should make it into the mid to upper 40s.

The cold front that passed through the Big Country yesterday will remain stalled to our south and west on Saturday. An upper level disturbance looks to move through the area bringing us a 20% chance for rain. Highs will likely be in the upper 40s to around 50 under mostly cloudy skies.

The stalled cold front is expected to move back to the north on Sunday as a warm front. Mostly cloudy skies should remain with highs in the mid to upper 50s. There is a slight chance for rain for the second half of the weekend.

Our best chance for rain in the next seven days looks to be on Monday. A dryline and upper level disturbance look to move through the region that day. We have a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Highs are expected to be in the mid to upper 60s.

A cold front should move through the region late Monday into early Tuesday. Arcitc air will be behind this front so well below average temperatures look to return. There is a slight chance for rain on Tuesday with highs in the low to mid 40s.

Wintry precipitation could return Tuesday night and into Wednesday. An upper level disturbance looks to move through the region at that time. If temperatures are cold enough, then we could see some snow or maybe some sleet during that time period. It is a situation that we are keeping a close eye on. We will continue to keep you updated on this.

Have a fantastic Friday!

Wednesday, February 07, 2007

Wednesday Night Update

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

The early taste of spring continued here in the Big Country today as temperatures were well above average for this time of year. Highs were mainly in the mid to upper 70s. We were able to have another warm day because the cold front that was expected to arrive by mid afternoon didn't get here until the late afternoon and evening hours.

Tomorrow will be much colder than what we have had so far this week. Highs should be in the upper 40s to low 50s. That is about 25 degrees colder than what we had for highs today. It looks like our sky will be mainly mostly cloudy, but could be partly cloudy at times.

Partly cloudy skies should remain on Friday with highs in the low to mid 50s. There is a slight chance for rain Friday night.

A slight to 20% chance for rain continues Saturday and Sunday due to a couple of upper level disturbances moving through the area. Highs on both days look to be in the upper 40s to mid 50s under mostly cloudy skies.

The cold front that passed us by earlier today will be stalled out to our south and west for the second half of the week. That front looks to move back to the north late Sunday and into Monday as a warm front. It is on Monday that we have our best chance for showers and even some thunderstorms. That chance is 30% right now, but may increase as we get closer to that time period. Highs to start the next work week should be in the upper 50s to around 60.

Cold air looks to take hold over the region again on Tuesday and Wednesday with highs in the mid 40s to around 50. There is a slight chance for rain the middle of next week.

Have a terrific Thursday!

Tuesday, February 06, 2007

Cooler Temperatures On The Horizon

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

It was another pleasant day across the Big Country with sunny skies and breezy south-southwest winds. Highs reached the low 70s. Today was the warmest day we have had since early January, which was the last time we had temperatures in the low 70s.

Wednesday looks to be another comfortable day with above average temperatures. Highs should reach the upper 60s to around 70. Enjoy it because a cold front is expected to arrive in the late afternoon hours. With this front moving in, we should see partly cloudy skies return.

Thursday and Friday look to be dry with partly cloudy skies. Highs on both days will likely be in the low to mid 50s. This is about 15 to 20 degrees cooler than what we have experienced so far this week.

The cold front that is expected to pass us by on Wednesday should remain stalled to our south and west this weekend. Some upper level disturbances look to head our way Saturday and Sunday. There is a 20% chance of showers. Highs should be in the upper 40s to around 50 under mostly cloudy skies.

Monday looks to be the day when we have our best chance for showers and even thunderstorms. That chance is 30% right now, but could increase as we get closer to that time period. The reason for our increased chance of precipitation is due to the stalled cold front moving back north as a warm front and the dryline possibly making it into the area. Highs on Monday look to be in the mid 50s.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Friday, February 02, 2007

Warmer Temperatures This Weekend

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

We had snow move through the Big Country overnight and into this morning. Accumulations of 1 to 4 inches were reported north of Interstate 20 with the highest amounts in Haskell and Throckmorton counties. Here in Abilene, the airport reported three tenths of an inch. Skies remained overcast for much of the day, but late this afternoon breaks occurred. Highs were mainly in the low to mid 30s, but a few of our southern communities made it into the upper 30s.

The entire viewing area should see a hard freeze tonight with lows mainly in the low to mid 20s. The northern portions of the viewing area should be even colder with a snow pack remaining in that area. Lows will likely be in the upper teens to around 20. With temperatures this cold, be sure to protect your pets, plants, and pipes. Also, be careful if you are going to be out and about tonight and early tomorrow. Any water that is out there
could freeze. It is possible for us to see some patchy fog as well.

Warmer temperatures will return this weekend thanks in part to west and southwesterly winds. Skies look to be mostly sunny with highs in the 50s. Some areas could see highs in the low 60s on Sunday.

A backdoor cold front is expected to move into the area late Monday into early Tuesday. A backdoor cold front for us is one that approaches from the east or northeast. Highs for the beginning of the next work week look to be in the low to mid 50s.

Wednesday through next Friday should be mostly cloudy with highs in the low 50s. An upper level disturbance may bring us some rain during that time period. Right now that chance for rain is slight to 20%.

Have a super Saturday!

Arctic Air Arrives

It’s Winter Wonderland once again. We saw the rain, sleet and snow yesterday across the Big Country as a few disturbances got pushed our way from an upper level low. Accumulations were anywhere from 1-4 inches with the greatest in the Northern counties. Haskell and Throckmorton had a report of 2-4 inches.

We should end the main activity by the afternoon but light flurries could be possible even into the overnight. Accumulations of 1-2 inches are still possible. With an arctic front that made its way through the area this morning, temperatures will remain cold today staying with highs in the 30’s and overnight reaching down to the 20’s.

After this system finally pushes out we should be able to start a slight warming trend with highs by Sunday in the lower 50’s and partly cloudy skies.

Please be careful driving, especially on the bridges and overpasses.

Have a great weekend!

Thursday, February 01, 2007

More Snow In The Big Country

From Chief Meteorologist Brandon Rector...

An upper level disturbance moved through the area this morning and into the early afternoon. It brought rain, sleet, and even some snow to the region. At Abilene Regional Airport, we recorded 0.27" of rain and a trace of snow. Temperatures remained in the mid to upper 30s during the day thanks to the cloudy skies and precipitation.

Another upper level disturbance will move through the Big Country tonight bringing another round of wintry precipitation. With the snow possible overnight and through tomorrow morning, several counties are under a Winter Weather Advisory. The counties are Haskell, Throckmorton, Fisher, Jones, Shackelford, Nolan, Taylor, and Callahan. The advisory is in effect until 6 a.m. Friday morning. Stephens county is under a Winter Weather Advisory until noon on Friday. Scurry county is under a Snow Advisory until 4 a.m. Friday morning. Stonewall county is under a Snow Advisory until 6 a.m. Friday. Knox county is also under a Snow Advisory until noon Friday. It is in these areas where 1 to 3 inches of snow accumulation is likely. Grassy and elevated surfaces as well as bridges and overpasses are the main spots where the snow will accumulate. This means there will be some slick spots around the area tonight and tomorrow so be careful if you are going to be out and about. Lows tonight will be in the upper 20s to low 30s.

The snow should taper off by the early afternoon hours tomorrow. A cold front should have moved through the area by early morning. Highs look to be mainly in the low to mid 30s. It is possible for us to see some flurries Friday night into early Saturday.

Partly cloudy skies and warmer afternoon temperatures should return this weekend. Highs on Saturday look to reach the upper 30s to low 40s. On Sunday we expect to have highs in the upper 40s to low 50s.

Monday and Tuesday will likely be dry with partly cloudy skies and highs in the upper 40s to low 50s.

A slight chance for rain returns on Wednesday and next Thursday. Skies look to be mostly cloudy with highs in the low 50s.

Have a fantastic Friday!

Cold Weekend Ahead!

Good Morning Meteorologist Kristen Connolly…

Yesterday morning we had a few showers across the Big Country. But with a break in the clouds we quickly raised our temperature into the 50’s with some sunshine. The clouds rolled back in into the evening and overnight we so some showers once again ending January with extra rain in the bucket!

Today we will have a chance for a morning shower with cloudy skies as an upper level low is passing by. With this quick moving system clouds will begin to break by early afternoon and we will see partly sunny skies with temperatures topping off around 50 degrees. Into the overnight we will see partly cloudy skies with lows getting down to the lower 30’s.

Tomorrow a strong artic front will be blasting through our area this is going to help makes highs only in the 30’s a very cool start to the weekend. Dependent on the timing of the front we could see falling temperatures or a cool day all day long. Best chance for precipitation will be into the overnight Friday into Saturday as temperatures drop into the mid 20’s. This would allow for light snow with very little accumulation possible. Saturday will be a cool day as well with highs again in the upper 30’s, a great day to make an indoor fire.

By Sunday we should warm back to around 50 degrees and stay steady there into the beginning of the work week. Lows will be around 30 degrees with partly cloudy skies.

Have a great Thursday!

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