Residents are gearing up for a shift in weather patterns, with showers and potentially severe storms on the horizon. After a dry spell, areas such as Winston-Salem experienced a mix of blue skies and cloud build-up earlier, foreshadowing the return of rain. The upcoming weather poses the risk of isolated severe thunderstorms, mainly associated with damaging winds, lightning, and potential flash flooding.
The temperatures soared today, reaching highs of 90 degrees in Reidsville, 91 in Lexington, 89 in Greensboro, and 86 in Mount Airy, accompanied by a high humidity level with dew points around 70 degrees. While current conditions are warm, a wave of rain brought heavy downpours without much thunder or lightning, resulting in nearly an inch of rain accumulation in parts like Surry, Yadkin, and Forsyth counties.
A trough of low pressure has made its way eastward, resulting in wet weather, primarily affecting areas west of the Triad. The front responsible for this change is slowly moving east, bringing unsettled weather over the coming days. The risk zone for tomorrow’s potential storms extends from the mountains to the coastline, as scattered showers persist overnight and linger into the morning.
Forecasts suggest a better chance of showers in western communities before lunchtime, possibly intensifying during the afternoon hours. Not all areas will be drenched, but those experiencing rain might face severe conditions. Temperatures are expected to reach 84 degrees in most areas, with cooler conditions in the foothills and mountains, standing at 79 and 72 degrees, respectively.
The timeline of this front will be crucial due to several tropical systems active in the region. Currently, Tropical Storm Alberto is generating 45 mph winds while moving west-northwest. There’s also a budding system near Puerto Rico, expected to strengthen into a tropical storm, potentially named Imelda, and possibly affecting the Southeast U.S. coast.
Tropical storm Gabrielle, though currently far in the North Atlantic, is making a surprising trajectory towards Europe and Africa. Residents are advised to stay prepared, as the upcoming days include significant rain chances spilling into the weekend, coinciding with tropical developments offshore.
In anticipation, locals are urged to remain alert and prepared for any severe weather, ensuring safety and taking necessary precautions to protect properties amidst the potential for heavy rains and storms.