The National Weather Service has issued its latest forecast, laying out expectations for prolonged warmth and the potential onset of cooler, wetter times ahead. The forecast, as reviewed from the summary, indicates that high pressure will stand firm over Columbus, Cincinnati, and beyond, setting up a stage for what will be a mainly dry and warm weekend. However, even as the mercury pushes up, we might look ahead to a shift early next week when a frontal boundary is set to shake things up, potentially dropping temperatures and bringing chances for showers.
On the near-term horizon, we're set to see the continuation of an established warm pattern. According to the National Weather Service, "Mid level ridge axis will remain centered just off to our west today with weak high pressure in place at the surface." This weather speaks to a Thursday that will stay dry under the watch of a very chill high pressure despite some high-level clouds that might try to slip through. The forecast promises afternoon highs, possibly notching the upper 80s or even lower 90s for some.
Moving into the cover of the night, we’re likely to witness little change. With weak energy skirting past, the ridge axis overhead will begin to flatten out enough to possibly increase cloud cover but not to let precipitation quite yet breach our defenses. Those looking to enjoy the lingering summer-like caress can rest easy into Friday, with the planning of outdoor events unlikely to be dampened by weather disruptions. Overnight lows are expected to hover in the mid-50s to lower-60s, setting the stage for another about of upper-80s to lower-90s the next day.
Long-term projections show a break in the pattern as we inch toward the working week. The forecast explains that we're in for "seasonably warm conditions" through the weekend "with some lower 90s mixing in as well." It's not until Sunday night into Monday that we may need to grab our umbrellas. An elongated trough is scheduled to roll through, signaling what could be the most significant rainfall the area has seen in a stretch. This brings some hope to potentially parched lands, with the National Weather Service suggesting that "several ensembles are even showing potential for near or greater than 1" of measurable rain from Monday - Tuesday."
The skies for aviators look cooperative, with no significant weather expected. However, there might be some visibility restrictions in certain areas, such as KLUK, due to river valley fog in the early morning or late night hours. Still, as per usual, weather patterns flow and ebb, and a vigilant eye to the skies and forecasts remains the prudent course for travelers and locals alike in the Cincinnati and Columbus locales.
