Skies over Nashville International Airport (KBNA) started off clear this morning with temperatures near 66°F and that unmistakable muggy, springlike humidity hanging in the air. By Wednesday afternoon, April 1, the thermometer is expected to jump into the mid-80s, with scattered showers and an isolated thunderstorm possible that could briefly throw a wrench into any outdoor plans.
Afternoon Storms And Gusts
Wednesday, April 1 is expected to stay partly sunny with a high near 84°F and about a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms developing after roughly 7 a.m. A few heavier cells could roll through and drop quick, localized downpours. South-southwest winds should run around 5 to 10 mph, with gusts that may reach up to 20 mph, which could make rain-slicked roads a bit dicey during bursts of heavier rain. This low-to-medium rain chance and the humid setup line up with the local forecast from the National Weather Service in Nashville.
Thursday Record Watch
On Thursday, April 2, the heat kicks up another notch. Forecasters expect a hotter and breezier day, with a high near 87°F and south winds of 10 to 15 mph that could gust as high as 30 mph. There is a modest shot at tying or breaking the record high for the date. A few scattered showers and isolated storms may linger into Friday, but the threat for severe storms is still projected to remain very low.
Weekend Rain And A Big Cool Down
The main shakeup arrives Saturday evening, April 4, when a stronger front is expected to bring the highest rain chances of the stretch. Forecasters peg coverage from Saturday afternoon into early Sunday at roughly 60 to 80 percent, and some spots could pick up as much as an inch of rain. Behind that front, temperatures take a noticeable dip, with a high near 63°F on Sunday, April 5 and lows near 40°F Sunday night. The overall risk of severe storms or flooding with this system is still being described as low by the National Weather Service in Nashville.
What This Means For You
Plan on tossing an umbrella in the car for afternoon errands and be ready for brief ponding on roads. If you hit one of those sudden downpours, ease off the gas and leave a little more room for braking. On the breezier days, secure lightweight patio furniture or decorations, and check radar or your local forecast before committing to weekend outdoor events.
