The W-I-N-D-S will finally calm Wednesday night

Had enough of the raucous winds yet? Tuesday afternoon gusts ranged up to 32 mph, a level recorded at both Clarksville and Chase City weather stations. Coupled with dry air and abundant pollen that much breeziness can make for not-so-nice conditions outdoors. Winds will continue to gust over 20 mph around Mecklenburg County today - Wednesday - as temperatures struggle to reach the mid-60s.

Wind strength is directly related to the pressure gradient, i.e. how quickly air pressure changes over a given distance. This graphic illustrates:

In the current case the pressure difference between a strong low over New England and high pressure stretching from the Great Lakes down to the Gulf states is fostering the gustiness.

That storm system over the Northeast will move away tonight, allowing winds locally to finally calm down this evening. Under clear skies and with very dry air in place temperatures will plummet into the 30s by dawn Thursday. That could mean scattered frost for some of the colder spots around the county.

Tomorrow will then bring continued clear skies and very light winds. The strong April sunshine will help temperatures climb into the upper 60s Thursday afternoon, heralding a significant warmup over the upcoming weekend. In fact, the 80s look to make a triumphant return starting Friday!