The National Weather Service has issued an update noting that a high-pressure system over New York will bring dry and warm conditions to Ohio today, with temperatures potentially climbing slightly higher than initially predicted. This forecast includes the Columbus and Cincinnati areas and suggests that residents will enjoy continued sunny skies for the day. "Have nudged up high temperatures a bit due to dry ground and effective mixing this afternoon," was noted in the forecast discussion published this morning.
With a tropical low-pressure system commencing its journey north in proximity to the lower Mississippi Valley tonight and into Thursday, the forecast indicates that high clouds from this weather event will start appearing in southern counties of Ohio despite the approaching remnants of what was once Tropical Storm Francine, the region is expected to hold onto its dry weather through Thursday. While pushing east into New England, the surface high pressure centered over New York continues slowly, which will provide a very light easterly flow, according to the forecast.
As we head towards the weekend, meteorologists watch for possible precipitation focused on the Tri-State region as Francine's remnants track northward. "The remnants of Francine will then track northward along the Mississippi River Thursday, bringing a chance of showers to the Tri-State Region to close the work week," according to the National Weather Service update. These showers are forecasted to be hit or miss, with the main impact being an increase in cloudiness and any actual rainfall concentrated near the Tri-State area.
A drier pattern is anticipated to take hold in the upcoming week as the strong mid-level atmospheric ridge rotates and expands, which could fend off significant wet weather. In a statement obtained by the National Weather Service, there are "indications that a new mid-level low may form over the Carolinas... This could bring a threat for rain by then." Until mid-week, though, the outlook remains largely dry, with highs in the 80s and lows in the 60s projected for most of the region.
For aviation interests, high pressure over New England will continue to support clear flying conditions. "High pressure over New England will ensure VFR conditions persist," the NWS forecast discussion mentioned. This tranquility, however, is cautioned to possibly change towards the end of the forecast period as the remnants of Francine edge closer, increasing high clouds at terminals such as Cincinnati. Until then, no significant weather is expected to threaten flight operations.
