A strong low pressure system over the eastern Great Lakes region will move into New England today (Wednesday). Meanwhile high pressure is settling across the Southeastern states. The pressure gradient between the two is kicking up gusty winds across Mecklenburg county today.
Westerly breezes gusting up to 30 mph will keep the air stirred around the region. Temperatures look to rise into the low 60s, mostly thanks to those winds crossing the Appalachian mountains at almost a 90ยบ angle. This warming effect is known as downsloping:
The air rises over the western mountain slopes (think West Virginia), depositing whatever moisture it's carrying there. Then, the much drier air rushes down the eastern slopes and becomes warmer than it had been originally. In addition to the stronger winds the lower humidity also heightens the potential for wildfires, so outdoor burning is discouraged on days like today.
A weak cold front will finally cross the county after the dinner hour this evening, but no precipitation is expected thanks to that very dry air. Winds will subside after midnight, and under clear skies temperatures will drop to the freezing mark by dawn Thursday. Tomorrow's conditions then look to be a bit more pleasant, with sunny skies, gentler breezes, and an afternoon high in the mid-50s.
By Thursday evening the next weather system will approach close enough to usher in clouds and scattered showers. Friday then looks to be wet, with up to an inch of rain expected by dawn Saturday. Whatever leftover salt and sand on roadways will be washed away for the weekend.
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