Showers late today and early Monday, then another dry week

The weather pattern seems stuck on "warmer and drier than average" for areas east of the Appalachians. These forecast graphics from the Climate Prediction Center illustrate:

Keep in mind, however, that average temperatures in Mecklenburg county trend downward during November. Thus to be "warmer than average" doesn't mean 70+ degree afternoon highs will continue. In fact, those readings will become scarcer as the month progresses.

Today (Sunday) will feature thickening clouds with showers arriving late this afternoon ahead of a cold front. Rain chances will continue overnight into the morning hours of Monday - Veterans' Day - but local gauges will only collect a quarter-inch of liquid or so. Temperatures this afternoon will top out in the mid-60s, a couple degrees above the average for this date.

As mentioned Monday will begin with clouds and a chance of rain. However, the aforementioned cold front will pass through the county tomorrow. Behind it winds will swap around out of the west, the clouds will thin, and the sun will reappear around the lunch hour. Local thermometers will climb into the mid-70s tomorrow afternoon, but don't count on that level of warmth to continue.

The remainder of the upcoming work week will be dry with temperatures at or below average for the midweek period. The hoped-for tropical moisture from Hurricane Rafael looks like it'll remain locked up over the Gulf Coast states instead of pushing north and providing rain for Virginia. Local drought conditions will continue to worsen.