The National Weather Service in Cleveland has indicated that the lingering high-pressure system over the northeastern United States is setting the stage for what looks to be an extended period of dry conditions and unseasonably warm temperatures. The latest forecast, courtesy of NWS Cleveland, suggests the high pressure will maintain its grip well into next week, thwarting any efforts by the remnants of Hurricane Francine to creep northward from the Lower Mississippi Valley.
In what can only be described as unusual weather, the mercury is set to climb into the low to mid-80s both today and Saturday, with overnight lows proving stubborn to plunge beneath the upper 50s to low 60s. This persistent weather pattern is a direct consequence, relatively sitting upon the eastern Great Lakes like an unwavering guardian of the high-pressure system that keeps most of the wet weather at bay to the south.
The short-term outlook doesn't stray far from the storyline of warmth and aridity as surface and upper-level ridging stay the course. According to NWS Cleveland's forecast, "Highs will be 10-15 degrees above normal," with Sunday and Monday's temperatures expected to naturally bake the low to mid-80s and potentially edging toward the upper 80s in some parts of Northwestern Ohio.
Looking further ahead, it would seem that this unfaltering ridge and its associated surface high will slowly migrate eastward as the week rolls on. Simultaneously, a collection of upper lows will intensify the troughing out west. Despite this gradual shift, chances of any significant rainfall remain imprisoned on the whims of a potential tropical cyclone near the Carolinas. Speculation on the possible tropical activity remains as murky as the coastal waters it would stir. NWS Cleveland reports, "Guidance continues to be inconsistent with large spreads regarding this system." High temperatures for the latter part of next week are expected to hover above normal, peering into the low to mid-80s, except in Northwestern Pennsylvania, where cloud cover might initiate slightly cooler conditions.
For the local mariners, Lake Erie will bask in relative tranquility under an easterly flow for the next five days. The winds will mostly be mild, but NWS anticipates winds to increase each afternoon, veering east-northeast with speeds ranging from 10 to 20 knots. Despite a watchful eye kept for any necessary advisories, Lake Erie's waves are expected to stay modest, leveling out at 1 to 2 feet.
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