Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Strong winds continue ahead of tonight's low severe threat

A warm robust wind and plenty of filtered sunshine Tuesday led to the Rockford Airport tying its record high temperature from 1922. 

Winds today will be just as strong, gusting up to 40 mph. This may lead to an elevated fire risk, though it doesn’t appear to be as high as it was yesterday as relative humidity will be slightly higher. This will also help us make another run at the 80° mark this afternoon, though cloud cover will be a bit more expansive. Also possible will be a sprinkle or shower in the afternoon and evening, especially in our westernmost areas.

From there, we will need to keep an eye on radar to the west as explosive shower and thunderstorm development occurs ahead of a cold front. Forecast models remain consistent, bringing this wave of precipitation in around midnight. Scattered showers will then linger into the early stages of Thursday, with chances shutting off before noon.

  

With the initial round, storms may sustain themselves enough to bring a low threat for severe weather. For that, the Storm Prediction Center has placed the entire region under a Level 1, Marginal Risk. Gusty winds will be the main concern, though large hail and even an isolated tornado or two will be possible. Heavy rainfall is also a notable threat.


After the rain tapers off, winds will once again be the big story. As the cold front is sliding through, peak gusts could range from 35-45 mph, dropping to 25-35 mph once trick-or-treating commences. Temperatures will be dropping, landing close to the 50° mark. Of course, with a gusty wind in place, this will add more of a chill to the air. Those heading out for Halloween fun will need the jacket - and perhaps a heavier jacket to remain warm and insulated.


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