The National Weather Service is forecasting a noticeable warm-up across the region today, with temperatures expected to climb into the upper 50s—well above average for mid-January. However, residents are being cautioned not to get too comfortable, as this surge in warmth will be short-lived.
A strong cold front is set to move in tonight and into Wednesday, ushering in much colder air. Winds will pick up out of the northwest on Wednesday, making conditions feel even chillier.
Ahead of the cold front, light rain may develop late Tuesday night and continue into Wednesday morning. Rainfall totals are expected to remain light, with less than a quarter of an inch anticipated.
Once the front passes, temperatures will drop sharply. By Wednesday night, lows are expected to fall into the teens, with wind chills potentially dipping into the single digits. The cold will persist through Thursday and Friday, with daytime highs struggling to rise above freezing.
A brief moderation is expected on Friday, but another round of cold air will arrive late in the week, reinforcing the chill through the weekend. Daytime highs over the weekend will generally remain in the 30s, while overnight lows will drop into the teens. Wind chills could be a significant factor, especially for areas to the north, where they may fall into the single digits or even below zero.
Residents are advised to prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions and to take precautions against the cold as winter tightens its grip.