Forecast Discussions mentioning any of "HRRR" "RAP" "RUC13" "RUC" "RR" received at GSD on 07/18/23


AREA FORECAST DISCUSSION
National Weather Service Wakefield VA
933 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .SYNOPSIS... Warm weather will continue this week with the chance for isolated to scattered diurnal showers and storms. A weak cold front potentially crosses the area late Friday into Friday night, bringing slightly cooler temperatures for the upcoming weekend. && .NEAR TERM /UNTIL 6 AM TUESDAY MORNING/... As of 930 PM EDT Monday... Any showers and storms from earlier have largely dissipated and will continue to do so over the next couple of hours. There is a complex of showers and storms just west of the forecast area (approaching Lynchburg), but these should also dissipate by the time they make it to the forecast area. Overnight low temps will range from the upper 60s to low/mid 70s. Lastly, wildfire smoke has made it into portions of the area, and should persist through tonight (especially across the NW half of the FA). As such. && .SHORT TERM /6 AM TUESDAY MORNING THROUGH THURSDAY/... As of 255 PM EDT Monday... The broad upper trough is progged to shift eastward on Tuesday and become centered over ern Canada, with the trough axis extending southward over the Mid-Atlantic/NE CONUS. Temperatures will be a couple degrees warmer tomorrow than they are today, with forecast highs in the lower-mid 90s. Not expecting heat headlines to be needed as dew points should mix out into the mid 60s-lower 70s during the aftn. Isolated to perhaps widely scattered aftn tstms are possible just about anywhere, with PoPs mainly 20-30%. Tuesday will feature a fairly typical summertime setup with strong sfc heating/modest shear. As is often the case in these types of setups, a couple of the storms will be capable of producing localized damaging wind gusts. SPC has introduced a MRGL Risk for severe wx for the entire area to account for this. Diurnal weakening should quickly occur after 00z/8 PM. Lastly, smoke from wildfires in wrn Canada will continue to be over the region on Tuesday as per latest HRRR guidance. The upper trough axis moves to our east on Wednesday, allowing the flow aloft to become NW. Guidance remains in agreement that a fast moving shortwave trough will track near or over the area late Wednesday. This should allow for more coverage of tstms, mainly during the aftn and evening. There is still some uncertainty regarding specific timing/placement of tstms, so have capped PoPs at 40-50%. A few strong to locally severe storms cannot be ruled out as well. Storms may last through part of Wed night before gradually weakening late. We will also likely see a bit less in the way of smoke aloft by Wednesday. Forecast highs again in the low 90s with lows overnight around 70 degrees. NW flow aloft continues on Thursday with the potential for yet another disturbance to move across the region. Less confident in the timing and strength of this wave so will keep PoPs aob 30% attm. High temps in the 89-93F range. && .LONG TERM /THURSDAY NIGHT THROUGH MONDAY/... As of 255 PM EDT Monday... Flow becomes more zonal/WSW on Friday as a shortwave digs south and east across the Great Lakes. A weak surface low to our north and an approaching front will keep slight chance PoPs in the forecast for the afternoon and evening. Highs Friday once again in the low 90s with low temps overnight a touch cooler, ranging from the mid 60s NW to the low 70s SE. Slightly cooler Saturday decreased humidity behind the weak front. Temps generally in the mid to upper 80s with the chance for an isolated shower/tstm across the southern half of the area. Perhaps a degree or two warmer on Sunday with the chance for isolated showers and storms area wide. && .AVIATION /02Z TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY/... As of 730 PM EDT Monday... VFR conditions at all sites to start out the 00z/18 TAF period. Similar to the past couple of nights, some patchy fog may try to form at the typical sites (PHF, SBY, and ECG) early in the morning hours. Added MVFR visbilities for now, but could see some brief periods of IFR (low confidence). Any patchy fog dissipates shortly after sunrise with VFR returning to all sites. An isolated afternoon thunderstorm will be possible at any of the sites Tuesday afternoon, potentially resulting in brief flight restrictions. Outlook: Prevailing conditions are expected to remain VFR through the week. Isolated to scattered aftn/evening tstms are in the forecast from Tue-Thu, with the highest coverage of storms expected to be on Wed. && .MARINE... As of 210 PM EDT Monday... Latest afternoon analysis indicates a cold front weakening along the Atlantic coast. Winds are quite variable across the waters due to this boundary, however, speeds are remaining around light at 5-10kt. The seabreeze has created E/NE winds from the Hampton Roads area down into Currituck, NC. Isolated showers are developing along the boundary in the Lower Bay, Currituck Sound, and immediate coastal waters early this afternoon. Generally think the best chance for isolated showers and storms through the rest of the evening will remain across the lower/middle Bay and down into coastal NE NC, but there are slight PoPs across most of the waters. Waves are around 1ft with seas of 2-3ft. Expect this typical summertime pattern to repeat for much of the week ahead as the Bermuda high regains control over the weather pattern over the region. Winds increase slightly on Wednesday and Thursday, with a prefrontal trough sharpening inland, which will help bump up rain chances a bit each day. Waves remain 1-2 ft with seas 2-3 ft, building the 3 to 4 ft with increasing SE swell tonight and Tuesday. Rip Currents: Moderate Rip Risk all beaches this afternoon with a more shore-normal component to wave energy, and another Moderate Rip Risk for Tuesday as well with an increasing SE swell. Rip risk should subside to low on Wednesday. && .AKQ WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... MD...None. NC...None. VA...None. MARINE...None. && $$ SYNOPSIS...RHR NEAR TERM...AJB/ERI SHORT TERM...ERI LONG TERM...ERI/RHR AVIATION...AJB MARINE...MAM/JKP
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Columbia SC
725 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .SYNOPSIS... A building ridge from the west will provide drier than normal conditions. However, this will also usher in above average temperatures through at least Friday afternoon, with Heat Index ranging from 100-110F most afternoons. Moisture starts to return late week, increasing thunderstorm chances once again. && .NEAR TERM /UNTIL 7 AM TUESDAY MORNING/... Lingering isolated showers near Augusta and just south of Columbia are expected to diminish after sunset. Overnight, a weak surface trough will remain across the region. Upper trough axis remains well west of the area. Smoke from Canadian wildfires showing up east of the Appalachians this evening will be slow to push out overnight. This will keep hazy conditions, along with the potential for patchy fog late tonight. Overnight, lows fall into the low to mid 70s. && .SHORT TERM /7 AM TUESDAY MORNING THROUGH WEDNESDAY NIGHT/... A fairly substantial pattern change in store for Tuesday as the broad upper low that has been over the eastern US will begin to weaken with upper heights rising across the forecast area. Temperatures expected to rise into the mid to upper 90s as a result with broad subsidence over the area. Similarly low moisture compared to average as Monday which will once again limit convection across the area. An isolated, weak shower or storm cannot be ruled out, especially across the NE but otherwise expect much of the area to remain dry. HiRes guidance does indicate that increased mixing will lead to drier air at the surface which should keep indices below heat advisory criteria but generally up to 105F. Increased southwest winds overnight will keep low temperatures generally in the mid 70s. Bit more uncertainty as to the temperature forecast as well as convective potential for Wednesday. GFS has a fairly robust shortwave moving through the area late in the day which would keep highs a bit closer to normal with widespread showers and storms, however, it does remain a bit of an outlier with much higher deep moisture return to the area even compared to its own ensemble members. Other global models do not dig this shortwave quite as far south either. Likely will at the very least be more clouds and highest chances for showers and storms across the northern portion of the forecast area which will keep highs closer to normal in the northern portion of the forecast area with highs approaching 100F across the south as NAEFS indicate that the 500mb heights are approaching the climatological max. A bit higher dew points may push the heat index slightly higher for Wednesday. Similar lows Wednesday night, in the mid 70s. && .LONG TERM /THURSDAY THROUGH MONDAY/... NAEFS indicates thats anomalously ridging will continue over the forecast area into Thursday with GEFS mean indicating the highest 850mb temperatures will be present across the area Thursday. This along with a fairly substantial SW breeze for this time of year will continue to support above average temps. More consistency among both GEFS and EC ensemble members of deep moisture increase Thursday which will increase pops. Ensemble means generally support a breakdown of the ridge with a deepening trough once again over the eastern US and a cold front approaching the area. This will lead to the potential for a relief from the heat with higher chances for showers and thunderstorms this weekend. && .AVIATION /00Z TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY/... Generally dry atmosphere in place with some mid level capping. Isolated convection along a weak surface trough expected to dissipate later this evening. Area of smoke aloft and near the surface indicated on satellite and surface obs, with surface VSBYS 3 to 5 miles in an area from N GA NE across Upstate SC into W and Central NC, just north of our TAF sites. Latest HRRR smoke model indicates the lower near surface VSBYs to only slip slightly south this evening, staying just north of our TAF sites. The model does indicate that the smoke over GA could shift east into our FA late tonight and Tuesday. So, some possibilities of surface VSBY restrictions due to smoke/haze, but confidence on specifics too limited to include mention at this time. Will evaluate trends and latest guidance for possible inclusion in later TAFs. Guidance showing only low probabilities of fog/stratus tonight, favoring fog prone AGS and OGB, with some stratus also possible across the coastal plain possibly getting inland as far as OGB. Only isolated diurnal convection expected Tuesday with little change in the atmosphere. Some upper energy will pass by to our NE. CAMs indicating some convection over NC, well NE of our TAF sites. So, will not include TS/SHRA mention at this time. EXTENDED AVIATION OUTLOOK...Increasing probabilities of diurnal thunderstorms and late night/early morning fog/stratus Wednesday through Saturday. Smoke/Haze from distant wildfires may reduce flight VSBYS and possibly surface VSBYs. && .CAE WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... GA...None. SC...None. && $$
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Caribou ME
948 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .SYNOPSIS... An upper level trough will remain west of the area through Tuesday, bringing a series of weak systems across northern New England. A cold front will slowly cross the region Wednesday. High pressure will briefly cross the region Thursday. Low pressure will track west of the region Friday into Saturday. && .NEAR TERM /THROUGH TUESDAY/... 9:47 PM Update...A Dense fog advisory remains in effect for Coastal Hancock and Coastal Washington Counties tonight through 10am Tuesday. Visibilities have dropped to a quarter mile in spots, including Bar Harbor. Otherwise, a few showers are moving through Eastern Aroostoook County at this time. These will come to an end by midnight. Previous Discussion... Latest HRRR & RAP near- surface smoke models are showing a decent concentration of western Canadian wildfire smoke moving into the area. Western New England and New York observations are showing stronger smoke concentration that previous models suggested. Opted to add patchy to areas of smoke into the grids starting this evening into tomorrow. The upper level smoke is already working into the area aloft but expecting low levels to increase in concentration. In coordination with Maine DEP have issued an Air Quality Alert product from 1AM tonight through Midnight tomorrow night for particle pollution levels at unhealthy for sensitive groups range. Otherwise expecting patchy to areas of fog across the area with strong low-level inversion and very moist boundary layer. Expect lows in the low to mid 60s and very muggy conditions overnight. Tomorrow expecting the Marine layer to hang in across Hancock and Washington counties with increasing sunshine in the morning across the north. A strong shortwave will approach from the west with a cold front slowly approaching from the northwest in Quebec. Patchy to areas of smoke will make for hazy skies in the morning in areas away from the Marine layer. Expecting some daytime heating to help destabilize the atmosphere and expecting the convective temperature across the North Woods to be reached by early afternoon. Warm and muggy with highs in the low to mid 80s away from the coast and dew points around 70F. A lot of questions around the arrival time of forcing will determine how strong convection may become in the afternoon. For now not expecting anything too strong to prompt enhanced wording for hail or gusty winds. However, SPC does have a "marginal risk" for severe on D2 for wind and hail. At this point cannot rule out some gusty winds and hail but holding off on the wording for now. The bigger concern is the potential for flash flooding especially along and north/west of Longfellow Mtns. WPC has placed the area in a "slight risk" for D2 across the area (see the hydrology section below). && .SHORT TERM /TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH THURSDAY/... A stream of heavy rain showers and thunderstorms will continue to stream into the forecast area along a slow moving cold front through Tuesday night. The NAM shows warm cloud thicknesses up to 11,000 ft, tall skinny CAPE around 500 J/kg, and PWs well over 1.5 inches that exceed the 90 percentile for 00z Wednesday will lend to the threat for heavy rainfall with the convection of the evening. Storms will likely train along the boundary from southwest to northeast, so the same areas may receive extended periods of heavy rainfall which could pose a flooding threat. The front will continue to weaken as it slowly limps through the forecast area Wednesday morning. Rain showers will begin to taper off into the afternoon with skies clearing overnight Wednesday night as brief high pressure builds into the area. Thursday may very well be the driest day of the week with brief high pressure overhead and mostly sunny skies. That said, rain ahead of the next disturbance will begin to approach the area from south to north late in the day on Thursday. && .LONG TERM /THURSDAY NIGHT THROUGH MONDAY/... There is good consensus among ensembles that an upper level trough will remain over the eastern CONUS through the end of the week with a blocking ridge centered just east of the Canadian Maritimes. The only general variation between various ensemble members is in the strength of the low pressure over the area, but its position will be similar to where it has been this entire season so far. Shortwaves will wrap around this upper level low through the weekend, giving way to a continued unsettled pattern with daily chances for rainfall. && .AVIATION /02Z TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY/... NEAR TERM: Aroostook terminals are generally VFR late this evening. BHB at LIFR cigs and vsby with fog. BGR at LIFR cigs, but vsby still P6SM. Expecting cigs to fall to IFR/LIFR at all southern terminals tonight with FG developing. Generally VFR north but BR/FG may reduce vsby at HUL, PQI, CAR late tonight into the early AM. FVE expecting generally BCFG potentially reducing vsby, otherwise VFR conditions through tonight. Tomorrow generally VFR at BGR northward with MVFR at BHB after 13z. Showers & T-Storms develop tomorrow afternoon impacting northern sites. Heavy rain may reduce vsby. Winds light & variable tonight becoming S 5-15kts tomorrow. SHORT TERM: Tuesday night...Variable conditions with any fog, or showers and thunderstorms. Otherwise VFR/MVFR, lowering to IFR/LIFR across all terminals. Variable winds 5 to 10 knots. Wednesday...Brief IFR possible early with any fog. A chance of showers and thunderstorms. All terminals lifting towards VFR in the afternoon. Variable winds 5 to 10 knots. Wednesday night...Variable conditions with any fog. A chance of showers and thunderstorm early. Otherwise, VFR. Variable winds 5 to 10 knots. Thursday - Thursday night...VFR. Slight chance of an afternoon shower. Variable winds 5 to 10 knots. Friday...VFR diminishing towards MVFR/IFR in showers and thunderstorms. Southeast winds around 10 knots. Saturday...MVFR/IFR with showers and thunderstorms. South winds around 10 kts. && .MARINE... NEAR TERM: Winds and seas below SCA through tomorrow evening. Waves are subsiding to generally 2-4ft by tomorrow. Winds will mostly be below 15kts. Vsby will be impacted with prolonged fog across the waters. Vsby one quarter mile or less tonight with dense fog. SHORT TERM: Winds/seas below small craft advisory levels. Areas of fog over the waters Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, reducing to patchy fog that will last over the waters through the next several days. && .HYDROLOGY... A slow moving cold front will approach from the northwest later in the day tomorrow. Ahead of this front precipitable water will increase to between 1.6-1.7 inches. Although precipitable water isn`t as high as previous events the soils across much of Eastern & Northern Maine are very sensitive to excessive rainfall. 1-3hr FFG is as low as 1 inch to as most as 1.8 inches. Modeled soundings show a deep warm cloud layer of 10-11kft through the afternoon into the overnight hours. Tuesday afternoon will feature tall skinny CAPE supporting convection with mostly deep layer unidirectional flow ahead of the boundary. The potential for excessive rainfall that may pose a risk of isolated flash flooding is possible especially along and northwest of the Longfellow Mtns into the Crown. It is here WPC ERO is "Slight Risk" for D2 with an area of "Marginal" along the I-95 corridor. In addition to the flash flood potential excessive rainfall may cause rapid rises of small creeks, streams posing the potential of washouts especially on North Woods dirt roads. Lastly, those planning on recreational activities across the Moosehead Region into the Baxter Region should familiarize themselves with their surroundings. The best chance of rapid rises on streams and creeks may occur after dark Tuesday evening. && .CAR WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... ME...Dense Fog Advisory until 10 AM EDT Tuesday for MEZ029-030. MARINE...None. && $$ Near Term...Clark/Sinko Short Term...AStrauser Long Term...AStrauser Aviation...Clark/Sinko/AStrauser Marine...Clark/Sinko/AStrauser Hydrology...Sinko
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service State College PA
1123 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .SYNOPSIS... A weak cold front will push through Central Pennsylvania Tuesday, then stall out just south of the Mason Dixon Line Tuesday night and Wednesday. The frontal boundary will return north on Thursday ahead of a shortwave tracking across the Grt Lks. High pressure is then likely to build into the region late week through next weekend. && .NEAR TERM /UNTIL 6 AM TUESDAY MORNING/... Regional radar late this evening shows convection associated with a passing mid level vort max beginning to exit the eastern part of the forecast area. Linear extrapolation and latest near term model guidance support POPs falling below 10pct over most of the region by around 06Z. Breaking clouds and light wind behind the departing vort max should promote areas of valley fog late tonight in locations that received rain late today. Will also continue to carry haze in the grids through late evening associated with Canadian wildfire smoke. However, the latest HRRR suggests the thickest smoke pushes east of the area late tonight. Overnight low temps should range from around 60F across the NW Mtns, to around 70F in the more urbanized locations of the Lower Susq Valley. && .SHORT TERM /6 AM TUESDAY MORNING THROUGH TUESDAY NIGHT/... A weak cold front is progged to push through the region Tuesday, accompanied by a round of showers or tsra in some places. The latest HREF supports the highest POPs of around 50pct across the NW Mtns. Progged shear values are highest across the eastern counties, where a late day fropa will also be more favorable for a few strong thunderstorms. Latest SPC outlook covers the eastern third of PA in a marginal severe weather risk. Large scale subsidence and the arrival of drier air behind the exiting cold front should result in breaking clouds and the threat of late night fog Tuesday night. Will maintain a slight chance of showers into the late evening per NBM guidance, but this may even be overdone. && .LONG TERM /WEDNESDAY THROUGH MONDAY/... The weak cold front is progged to stall out just south of the Mason Dixon Line Wednesday, close enough to support a low chance of an afternoon shower/tsra across the southern counties. However, lower humidity and seasonable temperatures appear likely for most of the area associated with a weak area of high pressure passing across upstate NY. The stalled frontal boundary should lift north into the region Thursday ahead of a deepening upstream trough over the Grt Lks. Diurnal heating, combined with falling heights and surging low level moisture, should result in a good chance of showers and thunderstorms Thursday PM. Areal average rainfall is likely to range from 0.25 to 0.50 inches based on latest ensemble plumes. However, locally heavier amounts of over an inch are likely with stronger convection. The bulk of medium range guidance supports a stretch of relatively dry and seasonable weather Friday through next weekend in association with a large area of high pressure building southeast from the Grt Lks. Upper level troughing should result in scattered, diurnally-driven showers Friday, then mainly sunny and dry weather appears likely for the weekend as the surface high and associated low-pwat air mass build over PA. Warmer and more humid conditions appear likely by early next week with scattered diurnal convection possible, as the high drifts off the east coast. && .AVIATION /03Z TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY/... Showers and thunderstorms are moving through the area this evening and are resulting in brief restrictions. This will continue for the next few hours, with MDT and LNS being the most likely to see lower cigs and visibilities. Outside of any thunderstorms, visibilities will likely remain MVFR due to wildfire smoke. Valley fog is expected to form overnight as rain comes to an end and skies begin to clear out. It is possible that BFD and JST also see a period of IFR/LIFR cigs overnight. Fog will dissipate fairly quickly after sunrise, but it remains uncertain whether or not visibilities increase to VFR as wildfire smoke will remain in place through most of the day. A few showers will be possible during the afternoon across the west, but coverage of showers and storms looks to be much lower than today. Outlook... Tue Night - Sat...Sct-numerous TSRA mainly across the Central and North Central Mtns of PA tonight and again on Thursday. Otherwise, VFR to MVFR in periods of smoke and/or haze, that was being transported all the way from Southwestern Canada. && .CTP WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... None. && $$ SYNOPSIS...Fitzgerald NEAR TERM...Fitzgerald SHORT TERM...Lambert/Fitzgerald LONG TERM...Fitzgerald AVIATION...Bauco
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Cheyenne WY
529 PM MDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .SHORT TERM...(This evening through Wednesday night) Issued at 340 PM MDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Current KCYS radar loop shows convection initiating across Carbon County and also just south of Laramie along the southern Laramie Range this afternoon. This is quite a bit different compared to what models were showing over the last 48 hours which had most of the thunderstorm activity well to the north. Radar loop shows a well defined convergence boundary/dry line feature along the Laramie Range with the best convection forming along it. HRRR has continued to increase the coverage and intensity of thunderstorm activity this afternoon and this evening across the eastern plains. Dewpoints in the low to mid 60s are still being observed across all of the western Nebraska Panhandle, with dewpoints in the low to mid 50s across the far eastern Wyoming plains. This has resulted in high MLCAPE between 1000 to 2000 j/kg across most of the high plains and a risk for severe weather late this afternoon through late this evening. Shear is plentiful with 0-6 Bulk Shear of 45 to 55 knots. Models also show a shortwave disturbance, currently across northern Wyoming, diving southeast across the area on the periphery of the upper level ridge axis that extends north of the Upper level high near the four corners region. The main forecast concern is the coverage and extend of thunderstorms and severe thunderstorms through late this evening. Previous models showed the shortwave feature much further east...barely clipping east central Wyoming and western Nebraska a few days ago. As of today, the upper level high and ridge axis are considerably further west than previous models suggested for this time of the day...so there is some degree of uncertainty with how far south the strong to severe thunderstorms will develop, especially given current radar trends this afternoon. Agree with SPC`s slight to marginal risk across the eastern plains along and east of the I-25 corridor. Would not be surprised to see both the marginal and slight risk area adjusted a little south and west this afternoon since Cheyenne has struggled to reach dewpoints lower than 50 degrees. Continued to increase POP between 15 to 25 percent along the I-80 corridor, and up to 50 to 60 percent further north from Lusk to Torrington and points east of this line. Worded forecast for Damaging winds and hail, although we believe strong winds may become the primary concern due to straight hodographs, considerable forcing, and strong shear. Very warm to hot temperatures will continue on Tuesday with highs in the 80s to low 90s. Surface winds will shift into the northwest, allowing some drier air to move into the forecast area. This should limit the amount of instability and CAPE, but still expect showers and some thunderstorms to develop with a marginal risk for severe thunderstorms east of I-25. High res models show some convection early in the day across Carbon and Albany counties, gradually shifting east through the day. However, models have consistently started the day drier than expected, so there is considerable uncertainty for Tuesday regarding the timing and coverage of thunderstorms. Kept POP between 15 to 30 percent Tuesday afternoon and evening due to this uncertainty. Previously, it looked like Tuesday would be our transition day between dry and hot and cooler and unsettled weather, but now models have trended FROPA to Wednesday. Cooling trend starts on Wednesday with highs mainly in the low to mid 80s. Models show a backdoor cold front pushing south across the plains and stalling near the mountains through the afternoon. Thermodynamic profiles should be less unstable due to the cooler air near the surface. However, the front is expected to stall near the Laramie Range and expect this region to be the focus of daytime and evening convection. Kept a solid chance of showers and thunderstorms mainly for the I-80 corridor and more focused on southeast Wyoming through Wednesday evening. At this time, thunderstorms are not expected to be severe but a few stronger storms are possible. .LONG TERM...(Thursday through Monday) Issued at 249 PM MDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Daily storm chances are expected for the first half of the long term, with a chance for severe weather on Thursday. A warming trend is expected through the long term, with a hot start for next week. Precipitation chances come to an end by Saturday. Thursday looks to be an active day with the potential for severe weather across the region. An upper-level ridge begins to flatten out Thursday as zonal flow moves over the intermountain west. Strong cyclonic vorticity advection at 500mb begins as several vorticity maximums move across the CWA and mid-level flow turns northwesterly through the afternoon. A jet maximum develops into the evening hours, providing additional synoptic lift to the CWA. 700mb flow remains mostly northwesterly through the day Thursday with a low- level jet maximum developing over eastern Nebraska. SBCAPE values are marginal for Thursday, with the GFS suggesting SBCAPE values only around 500 J/kg, with similar values of MUCAPE. The GFS Ensemble suggests a decent, 30-40% chance, for CAPE to exceed 1000 J/kg, so there is a potential for higher CAPE values than currently modeled. What Thursday lacks in CAPE, it makes up in shear. Bulk shear values are forecast to be between 45 and 50 kts in southeast Wyoming and western Nebraska, with PW values exceeding 0.9in across southeast Wyoming and 1.00in for western Nebraska. Moisture and shear will not be an issue for Thursday, but CAPE could be a limiting factor. However, GFS forecast sounding show tall, skinny CAPE profiles indicative of heavy rain producing storms. While CAPE values are marginal, with northwest flow over the region, synoptic lift, high shear, and higher PWs it will be possible to get thunderstorms to initiate across the region. Trends will need to be watched as Thursday approaches. Northwest flow aloft continues into Friday as a ridge begins to build over the western CONUS. Several vorticity maximums traverse through the ridge with northwest flow over the CWA Friday allowing for the chance for afternoon showers and thunderstorms once again. A subtle shortwave is progged to move over the area in the afternoon hours, providing additional lift across the region. A jet maximum develops at 250mb, further placing the region in an favorable location for enhanced synoptic lift. The GFS Ensemble suggests a higher probability, 50-70%, for CAPE values to exceed 1000 J/kg across western Nebraska. Bulk Shear values for Friday are similar to Thursday, with 45-50 kts present across southeast Wyoming and the Nebraska Panhandle. PWs will be significantly lower Friday, especially across the Panhandle where PW values are progged to be between 0.70 and 0.80in, with 0.50 to 0.60in across southeast Wyoming. Dewpoints will also be slightly lower for Friday, but still enough to get convective development. GFS forecast soundings show better CAPE profiles across western Nebraska. All these factors come together for a prime environment for storms to develop. While it is a bit far out to determine how significant the severe threat is for Friday, all signs point to a good environment for convective development. Precipitation chances come to an end Saturday as the upper-level ridge builds over the western CONUS and shifts easterly towards the CWA. A 500mb ridge of 594dm is firmly in place across the western CONUS by Saturday and strengthens to nearly 600dm by early next week. Strong subsidence under the ridge will allow for clear skies for most of the weekend. As a result, a strong warming pattern is expected this weekend and into early next week. Temperatures will approach the mid-90s across the Panhandle by Sunday, with upper-90s being possible Monday. Max temperatures for Sunday and Monday were increased with this forecast package, as the GFS and ECMWF both suggest a stronger ridge than is currently present across the CWA. && .AVIATION...(For the 00Z TAFS through 00Z Tuesday evening) Issued at 521 PM MDT Mon Jul 17 2023 A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect until 1 AM MDT for Converse, Niobrara, Platte and Goshen Counties in southeast Wyoming and for the Nebraska Panhandle except for Kimball and Cheyenne Counties. Wyoming TAFS...A passing weather disturbance will produce isolated thunderstorms at the terminals until 02Z, producing wind gusts to 45 knots and ceilings from 5000 to 8000 feet AGL. Otherwise scattered to broken clouds from 9000 to 10000 feet AGL will prevail. Winds will gust to 30 knots at the terminals after 15Z Tuesday. Nebraska TAFS...A passing weather disturbance will produce isolated thunderstorms at the terminals until 05Z, with storms capable of producing wind gusts in excess of 50 knots and ceilings around 7000 feet AGL. Otherwise winds will gust to 30 knots at the terminals from 01Z to 05Z. Later tonight and Tuesday, expect scattered clouds from 7000 to 10000 feet AGL. && .FIRE WEATHER... Issued at 255 PM MDT Mon Jul 17 2023 It will remain dry this afternoon with gusty west to southwest winds west of the Interstate 25 corridor. Although conditions are generally elevated due to relative humidities around 10 to 15 percent, fuels remain green which will likely hinder the potential for rapid fire growth. Further east, humidities are above 20 percent with lighter winds. Widely scattered showers and thunderstorms are forecast to develop late this afternoon across southeast Wyoming, and then push east into the plains as they increase in coverage. Conditions will generally trend cooler and wetter over the next 48 to 60 hours through the middle of the week. Below normal temperatures and numerous showers and thunderstorms are expected by Thursday with a good chance for wetting rainfall. && .CYS WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... WY...None. NE...None. && $$ SHORT TERM...TJT LONG TERM...AM AVIATION...RUBIN FIRE WEATHER...TJT
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Grand Forks ND
1050 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .UPDATE... Issued at 620 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Smoke remains relatively widespread across the area this evening, with isolated light showers near Lake of the Woods. Winds are expected to diminish through the remainder of the evening, then shift to the south heading into Tuesday morning. Overall, the forecast remains on track this evening. && .SHORT TERM...(This evening through Tuesday night) Issued at 257 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Key Message -There is a threat for severe weather Tuesday afternoon and early evening, although the exact details are still uncertain Fairly thick cumulus still exists over most of the FA, but is thickest to the east of the Red River Valley. Bemidji reported a stray shower, but there haven`t been too many showers showing up on radar or surface observations yet. Wind speeds were a little higher east of the Valley and lower from Devils Lake to Valley City. Moving into tonight, the cumulus will fade away and wind speeds look to become light. It will be cooler around the Lake of the Woods region, with exact cloud amounts being more uncertain for other areas. The cloud uncertainty tonight revolves around the fact that some CAMs develop showers and storms over Saskatchewan and northwest North Dakota tonight, then show them moving as far east as eastern North Dakota late (as they weaken). This would spread more cloud cover across the state of North Dakota late tonight and possibly Tuesday morning. For Tuesday into Tuesday night, SPC has placed central North Dakota eastward to the western edge of the Valley in a marginal risk for severe weather. As mentioned before, the details surrounding this are still uncertain. Some of the general components are an approaching 500mb low, with a short wave out ahead of it. The shear actually looks pretty good this time around, with the potential for over 40 knots (better to the south than the north). The HREF shows CAPE values pushing up into central North Dakota by early afternoon, getting into our western FA by late afternoon, then the values quickly weaken during the early evening. The GFS ensemble shows about a 40 percent chance of reaching 2000 J/kg of CAPE from Carrington to Jamestown at 00z Wednesday. Do not see much of a low level jet, which could help to sustain any stronger activity into the overnight period. There are a couple of scenarios. First, morning cloud cover could help to hold down the temperature rise on Tuesday. The HRRR has been showing the overnight convection weakening over eastern North Dakota Tuesday morning, but it also develops additional showers and storms over the central Dakotas during the mid to late morning hours. Don`t think that would limit the later afternoon convection all that much though, but the first scenario would be longer lasting clouds and the possibility for longer lasting convection Tuesday morning. Another scenario would be that the overnight convection dies out Tuesday morning with heating developing through the day. Storms break out again in the 3 to 5 pm time frame from Devils Lake to Jamestown, moving into eastern North Dakota during the early evening, producing some severe storms. The HREF develops some UH tracks greater than 75 in that Devils Lake to Jamestown corridor around 23z (6 pm), moving them toward the western Valley by 03z (10 pm). We have been messaging the 3 pm to 9 pm time frame for severe storms, and this is still within that ballpark. Lingering chances for showers and thunderstorms will continue into Tuesday night, as the daytime convection continues to drift to the east. It is possible some storms may yet be severe in the early evening, but any of those should weaken in the later evening and overnight. Weakening means the severe threat should end, but the showers and storms should track through the entire area, giving most of the FA about a 30-40 percent chance of seeing 0.25 inch amounts. .LONG TERM...(Wednesday through Monday) Issued at 257 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Key Messages -A 500mb low traverses the FA Wednesday/Wednesday night, bringing more precipitation chances -Northwest flow sets up Thursday through Sunday, with more subtle waves possible (chances for precipitation) at times The 500mb low will track across the FA Wednesday into Wednesday night. There is a cold pool aloft, so expect some morning sun leading to thicker afternoon clouds and the chance for showers and storms. Severe weather does not look likely, but these lows can produce funnels under the right circumstances. Later shifts can take a closer look at that. For Thursday through Sunday, as the 500mb low pushes off to the east and ridging builds over the Rockies, flow over the FA turns to the northwest. By Monday, the western ridge flattens, with a more zonal pattern ensuing. The main highlights for this period will be that any waves during this period will be more subtle, but they could produce precipitation. Confidence is just too low to narrow that down this far out. The other thing is that temperatures look to return to near or slightly above normal. && .AVIATION...(For the 06Z TAFS through 06Z Tuesday night) Issued at 1047 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 MVFR conditions persist at KGFK and KDVL tonight due to low level smoke. Other sites are currently VFR, but could experience brief reductions into the MVFR category due to smoke, mainly this evening and overnight. Look for winds to become southerly Tuesday, with smoke expected to diminish slightly through the late morning and into the afternoon. Look for a chance of isolated showers and thunderstorms during the mid to late afternoon. Strong to severe storms are possible for portions of the region, primarily from the Red River Valley and points west. && .FGF WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... ND...None. MN...None. && $$ UPDATE...Lynch SHORT TERM...Godon LONG TERM...Godon AVIATION...Lynch
AREA FORECAST DISCUSSION
National Weather Service Hastings NE
900 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .UPDATE... Issued at 846 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 The main update this evening was to expand the chances for precipitation further southwest based on the potential for storms to expand a little further to the south and west as they tap into the enhanced shear and instability. Forecast soundings show a significant amount of MUCAPE, very steep mid level lapse rates (on the order of 8-9 degrees C/km), and ample deep layer shear...this increases my confidence in hail sizes in general larger than just the "basic" severe size of quarters. Thinking potentially up to the size of golf balls in the strongest storms, at least as they start to move into the area from the northwest (most likely around 1 or 2AM). If these develop into a more coherent line, gusts up to 70 mph may be possible, but currently not confident one way or the other on that. These storms are expected to move southeast across the area during the overnight hours (roughly 1-5AM according to the latest HRRR run), with perhaps another round in our far north around mid to late morning. && .DISCUSSION...(This evening through Monday) Issued at 430 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Key Messages: * Off and on thunderstorm chances continue for the next several days due to active zonal to NW upper flow. * These will be hit and miss, and not everyone will see them...but any storms that do form late tonight through Wednesday could be on the severe side given strong instability and unseasonably strong wind shear. * Outside of far southern portions of the forecast area, any really hot and humid conditions look to remain confined mostly south of the area until perhaps the upcoming weekend. * Smoke from Canadian wildfires has caused poor air quality today and kept temperatures lower than forecast, but these impacts should lessen over the next 24 hours. Forecast Details: Once iso-scat shwrs/storms ended this AM it`s been a pretty quiet, and overall fairly comfortable, summer day across most of the forecast area. Steady NE-E sfc winds have had a lot to do with this, but so has the thick smoke from Canadian wildfires, as air temperatures have been held several degrees cooler than forecast. In fact, most locations along/N of Hwy 6 are still, as of 3PM, only in the 70s. The exception to this is across far S tier of KS zones owing to thinner smoke and pooling low level moisture where air temps are closer to 90F, and dew points are in the lower 70s. Heat indices may briefly touch the century mark in these areas, but probably only for an hour, or two. Tonight, attention turns to the next round of shwrs/storms forecast to move into the area from the W/NW. Shortwave ridging and large scale subsidence have kept conditions along the High Plains quiet thus far, but this is forecast by most CAMs (including last several runs of the HRRR) to change this eve as a shortwave trough, currently seen on WV imagery from MT into ID, shifts E towards the Plains. While timing of this wave is not ideal for sfc based convection to organize into an MCS prior to diurnal stabilization, model progs of a 35-45kt LLJ (and associated isentropic ascent) nosing from the S Plains into KS/NE region should still allow for continuation of at least weak to moderate convection into the late overnight hours as the upper level shortwave rounds the top of the ridge near the Black Hills late this eve, then turns SE overnight. This is pretty classic "ring of fire" effect for this region for this time of year as convective complexes tend to track along the mid level thermal gradient, which tonight, is a fairly impressive 10C from SW to NE across Neb. TL HRRR and HREF suggest areas N and E of the Tri- Cities have the greatest chcs for storms and appreciable rain amounts. However, want to caution that if storms really tap into the unseasonably strong upper shear (effective shear progged to be 40-60kt per latest SREF), then sometimes these complexes can take a hard turn to the right/south, as was evident in KS last eve. HRRR simulated refl is less than impressive with activity over most of our CWA tonight, but am somewhat skeptical given aforementioned features and overall pattern recognition. It is just hard for me to ignore that kind of wind shear in July, esp. when steep mid level lapse rates and strong MUCAPE are being advected N/NE by a decent LLJ. So...if storms are stronger, then Tri-Cities will be in play for decent rainfall, but it would also probably come with incr risk for hail and/or high wind. As for the ongoing smoke, mixing has helped vsbys to finally rise back to the 7-10 mile range for most of the area, but there`s still an obvious "milky/smokey" look to the air. HRRR/RAP progs suggest continuation of this through the overnight, perhaps even backing some to the W/SW, but then steady improvement through the morning hours Tuesday. Reference the latest AQA for additional information. Latest guidance suggests minimal smoke concerns on Wed, but perhaps another round sometime late Wed night into Thu along and behind a cold front. Tonight`s convection should be largely E/SE of the area by sunrise Tue with the daytime hrs likely playing out pretty similarly to today - mix of sun/clds/haze and Erly low level flow. Most guidance has trended a bit cooler for Tue, which makes sense given how today has played out. This should once again limit temps and keep any heat index concerns of AOA 100F confined to far S portions of our KS zones. Lowered Tue highs a solid 2-4 deg and this may not even be enough per latest NBM. Probably looking at a repeat scenario Tue PM as convection once again develops over the High Plains of WY/CO/W NE during the aftn, then shift E in the quick mid-upper level flow Tue eve/night. Guidance still suggests decent combination of effective shear and instability, though the instability axis and magnitude may not be as impressive as tonight. Most notably, however, is the fact the LLJ is oriented much further S and noses primarily into the Mid MS Valley, so convection moving off the High Plains probably won`t be quite as organized. Nonetheless, SPC Marginal risk of severe still looks warranted, at least for W third or so of CWA. Next synoptic disturbance looks to come later Wed into Wed night in the form of a decently strong cold front. Timing of the front currently looks to be post peak-heating/instability, but suspect decent instability/shear/mid level lapse rates will still persist into the eve/overnight hrs, so again, the SPC Marginal risk seems appropriate. If timing managed to speed up, then a greater risk for severe weather could materialize. Should get into a slightly cooler and drier airmass behind the synoptic cold front for the end of the work week. In fact, Thu and Fri look to be quite pleasant by late July standards with highs in the 80s and seasonably low dew points in the upper 50s to lower 60s. Latest ensembles suggest a warming trend in time for the weekend with highs returning to the 90s. && .AVIATION...(For the 00Z KGRI/KEAR TAFS through 00Z Wednesday) Issued at 629 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Showers and thunderstorms are expected in the vicinity of the terminals overnight tonight, mainly between around 07Z and 15Z. As far as visibility and CIGs are concerned, sticking with the 6SM and HZ for the overnight hours due to the wildfire smoke filtering through the area. CIGS will lower but likely still be VFR as thunderstorms move through, but probably drop to MVFR (maybe a brief period of IFR) in the morning after storms depart. CIGs should improve to VFR by the afternoon. Winds will generally be out of the east to southeast the entire period at 8-12 kts (except gusty and variable in thunderstorms). Gusts may be 20-25 kts at KGRI during the late morning and early afternoon hours. && .GID WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... NE...NONE. KS...NONE. && $$ UPDATE...Hickford DISCUSSION...Thies AVIATION...Hickford
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Goodland KS
755 PM MDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .UPDATE... Issued at 744 PM MDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Fairly decent signal for fog/stratus over the eastern portion of the area starting around 09Z-14Z as moisture advection brings low 70 dew points back into the area. The only caveat to fog formation would be if any ongoing showers/storms are occurring which would mitigate the potential. I also added in haze into the forecast as the HRRR Vertically Integrated Smoke Parameter has been consistently showing smoke aloft moving into the area from the ongoing Canadian Wildfires. I do think the haze will be a bit more widespread than today (as McCook has been at 5sm all afternoon and evening) as the ridge breaks down and retrogrades a bit more to the west. I also did lower high temperatures across the east for Tuesday due to the impacts of the haze and the potential for the fog/stratus deck to linger for the majority of the morning. && .SHORT TERM...(This evening through Wednesday night) Issued at 332 PM MDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Current visible satellite shows mostly clear skies over the area with 500 mb analysis showing the upper high centered over the Four Corners region and the ridge axis through eastern Montana/Wyoming. Forecast 850 mb temperatures today to around 27-32C have us seeing high temperatures climb into the lower 90s over northeastern portions with lower 100s over southwestern portions. Heat indices have been observed in the middle 90s to low 100s. As a shortwave moves through the generally northwesterly flow aloft this evening- tonight, may see storms from WY continue southeastward with potential to clip north-northeastern portions of our area, between approximately 03-09Z. If this does occur, storms could be strong to severe with 0-6 km bulk shear 40-50 knots, modest instability, and PWATs to around 1.25 to 1.5 inches. Overnight lows are forecast in the middle 60s to near 70. Going into tomorrow, the upper high slides eastward with the ridge being deamplified by an upper low moving through Saskatchewan. Flow aloft becomes more WNW. At the surface, flow veers to become ENE with a surface low moving through. 0-6 km bulk shear still around 40- 50 knots, SBCAPE generally around 2000-3000 J/kg, 700-500 mb lapse rates around 8-8.5 C/km, and PWATs increasing to around 1.25-1.5 inches allow for severe potential with storms. Approximate timeframe for development is expected in the mid to late afternoon (~22-00Z) west of the area, continuing into the evening hours with primary hazards of damaging winds and large hail. Afternoon highs continue in the low to upper 90s with overnight lows in the middle 60s to near 70. On Wednesday, the positively tilted trough/upper low continue southeastward towards eastern ND/northern MN as the upper high remains across the southern CONUS. A frontal boundary moving through will serve as focus for convective initiation in the mid to late afternoon. The severe threat currently looks to cover eastern portions of the area where better instability and moisture are available with PWATs around 1.5-1.75+ inches. A marginal risk of excessive rainfall also exists and may lead to localized flash flooding with storms. High temperatures climb into the upper 80s to middle 90s followed by overnight lows in the low to middle 60s. .LONG TERM...(Thursday through Monday) Issued at 147 PM MDT Mon Jul 17 2023 The latest GFS/ECMWF both continue to show strong, amplified upper ridging over the western portion of the country on Thursday, with a slow progression eastward towards the Plains region for the latter portion of the upcoming weekend, on into the beginning of next week. There will be a couple shortwaves working southeast along the eastern periphery of the ridge. Based on model track, these systems will move through mainly western and southern portions of the CWA for Thursday into Friday night. With the upper ridge starting to crest over the CWA by the weekend, looking for a dry period for the area. ECMWF a bit closer towards this versus the GFS. At the surface, a frontal boundary will be the low level focus for precipitation over the first 48 hours. The front is draped over the south/southwest portions of Kansas as high pressure resides north of there. The western portion of the front does extend back into Colorado by Friday. This will allow easterly flow over the CWA on Thursday to transition to more southeasterly by Friday/Friday night. The result of this will keep a steady inflow of low level moisture into the area as each shortwave passes through. Chances for rw/trw will result. With high PW values over an inch to 1.5", locally heavy rainfall will be of concern and is highlighted for excessive Day 4/5 Rainfall Outlooks from the WPC. Hydro concerns will have to be monitored. Most of this precip will occur during the afternoon/ evening hours, so diurnal heating will create additional instability, so can`t rule out a strong to severe storm possibility. For temps, highs on Thursday and Friday will range from the upper 70s into the mid 80s. Coolest locales will be in the west/southwest where best chances for clouds/precip to occur. Going into the upcoming weekend, warmer conditions expected with no precipitation forecasted. Looking for a range in the mid to upper 80s Saturday, give way to lower and mid 90s for Sunday. Going into next Monday, hot temperatures remain with mid and upper 90s on tap. Heat indices for the the upcoming 72-hour period (Saturday through Monday) will range at this time to near or just above forecasted highs. Overnight lows will have an increasing trend as well with upper 50s to lower 60s Thursday night, give way to mid 60s west to upper 60s east by Sunday/Monday nights. A few spots east of Highway 83 may only drop to around 70F. && .AVIATION...(For the 00Z TAFS through 00Z Tuesday evening) Issued at 533 PM MDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Some haze from Canadian wildfires is occurring at KMCK currently which is causing MVFR visibilities, as the night inversion sets in around 02Z should let VFR conditions return to the terminal. Stratus and fog looks to develop east of the KGLD terminal overnight and persist through sunrise. Guidance is in fairly good agreement for KMCK to be impacted by MVFR to even IFR ceilings and possibly visibilities through mid morning. Forecast humidity cross sections isn`t as optimistic for fog/stratus at KGLD so will leave out of the TAF for now and monitor. A low chance for showers and storms exists across the area Tuesday afternoon; will leave out of the TAF for now until exact location details become more clear. && .GLD WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... KS...NONE. CO...NONE. NE...NONE. && $$ UPDATE...Trigg SHORT TERM...CC LONG TERM...JN AVIATION...Trigg
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Gray ME
1038 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .SYNOPSIS... Somewhat unsettled weather returns on Tuesday as an upper trough arrives resulting in a return of scattered showers and thunderstorms some of which could be strong during the afternoon. Localized flash flooding will be possible as well. Drier air is expected for Wednesday Night into Thursday before another trough arrives late week bringing chances for showers and thunderstorms Friday into the weekend. && .NEAR TERM /TONIGHT/... 1040PM Update...No changes needed to the forecast other than massaging temps and dewpoints to match latest observations. 745PM Update...The forecast for this evening remains is in good shape and didn`t need any changes. Going into late tonight/early Tuesday morning, a few showers and possibly a storm could approach far northern areas toward or just after sunrise in response to a weak wave aloft. The HRRR has been showing this for a few consecutive runs now, especially into Coos county. So I did add a small shower/storm chance across these areas starting around 09Z/5 AM. The rest of the area is expected to remain dry with fog possible along the coast as well as the valleys. Previous... Mostly clear skies continue tonight with some haze making its way across New Hampshire and into Maine overnight. While skies remain clear, moisture will linger at the surface with dewpoints remaining in the upper 60s to low 70s south of the mountains. This will allow fog to return to the coast and central Maine tonight, likely lingering along the midcoast into the morning. && .SHORT TERM /6 AM TUESDAY MORNING THROUGH TUESDAY NIGHT/... A cold front will begin to cross the area tomorrow morning from the west bringing another round of showers and thunderstorms. Showers are expected to increase through the day with the thunderstorm potential strengthening in the afternoon as instability builds. As thunderstorms pass through, some may strengthen to strong to severe with rainfall rates up to 2 inches per hour. While not all areas may see heavy downpours, those that do may experience a renewal of flash flooding due to saturated soils. Along with the flooding potential from heavy rain, the saturated soils may cause trees to be blown over at lower windspeeds in thunderstorms. Showers and thunderstorms look to continue into tomorrow night, tapering off after midnight as the cold front exits to the east. && .LONG TERM /WEDNESDAY THROUGH MONDAY/... A trough of low pressure will exit the region Tuesday night and Wednesday, leaving most of the forecast area with dry conditions however there may be a slight chance of a shower over eastern sections. It will be very warm and perhaps slightly less humid with most locations in the 80s for afternoon high temperatures. A weak short wave trough is expected to cross the region on Thursday but forcing will be weak. Therefore we expect mainly dry weather with perhaps an isolated afternoon shower or thunderstorm. A deeper short wave trough approaches Friday and is likely to aid in widespread showers and thunderstorms Friday and Friday night. This could cause renewed flash flooding depending on how favorable parameters line up. Leftover showers may occur Saturday. Better weather is then expected Sunday and Monday with weak high pressure moving in. && .AVIATION /03Z TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY/... Short Term...Skies will remain mostly clear tonight for western terminals while fog returns to coastal terminals and AUG bringing ceilings down to IFR into the morning. Ceilings will then thicken and lower from west to east through the day tomorrow as a cold front crosses the area bringing showers and thunderstorms through most terminals. Showers taper off after midnight tomorrow with conditions returning to VFR for Wednesday. Long Term...Mainly VFR during the daytime hours Wed and Thu with areas of fog coming in at night. Low pressure moves in from the west Friday and Saturday with more IFR conditions in showers and thunderstorms. && .MARINE... Short Term...Seas will continue to subside through the short term while winds remain primarily from the south. Coastal fog returns tonight as moist conditions continue. A cold front crosses the waters tomorrow afternoon bringing showers and thunderstorms with gusty winds and high seas near these storms. Long Term...Winds and seas will be below SCA thresholds during the long range portion of the forecast. However, maritime fog will develop from time to time, especially during the nighttime hours. && .HYDROLOGY... Locally heavy rains can be expected once again Tuesday into Tuesday evening as a trough of low pressure once again enters the Northeast. The risk of excessive rainfall is primarily over central and northern areas. A flooding watch has been issued, mainly due to scattered slow-moving thunderstorms producing very high rainfall rates. && .GYX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... ME...Flood Watch from Tuesday afternoon through Tuesday evening for MEZ007>009-012-033. NH...Flood Watch from Tuesday afternoon through Tuesday evening for NHZ001>009-011-012-015. MARINE...None. && $$ NEAR TERM...Combs/Thunberg SHORT TERM...Thunberg LONG TERM...Ekster
AREA FORECAST DISCUSSION
National Weather Service Wilmington OH
1031 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .SYNOPSIS... A cold front will move southeast through the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley tonight, bringing a chance of showers and thunderstorms. Precipitation chances will decrease into Tuesday as stalls out near the Ohio River. Additional chances for showers and thunderstorms are expected Tuesday night into Wednesday as a warm front lifts north into the Ohio Valley. && .NEAR TERM /UNTIL 6 AM TUESDAY MORNING/... MCS continues to push southeast across ILN/s FA into the Scioto River Valley and northern Kentucky. These storms have a had a history of producing large hail and strong to damaging winds across western portions of ILN/s FA. Radar shows a general weakening trend and the severe weather potential diminishes as the storms encounter a less favorable environment. However, with lingering instability continuing across the far south and southeast -- can not rule out severe out a severe potential through about midnight, with strong to damaging wind being the main threat. As storms line up across the south ahead of the surface front that lays out in an east-west fashion - the potential for training storms, heavy rain and localized flooding will exist overnight. Lows tonight will be in the low to mid 60s. && .SHORT TERM /6 AM TUESDAY MORNING THROUGH WEDNESDAY/... With the front washing/stalling out along or just to the south of the Ohio River, will linger some slight chance pops across mainly our southern areas during the day on Tuesday. The HRRR smoke model is suggesting some lingering, but less concentrated smoke across the region through the day on Tuesday. It also appears to be pinching off the smoke somewhat, so will hold off on including any mention of haze/smoke in the forecast for now. Highs on Tuesday will be in the upper 70s to low 80s. The models have trended a little farther to the southwest with a mid level short wave/MCS moving through the lower to mid Ohio Valley Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. As a result, will keep pops in the chance category, with the highest pops across our southwest. The exact timing and track of the Tuesday night MCS may affect how things play out through the day on Wednesday. As of now, it looks like the remnant cold front/boundary may lift back north into our area as a warm front through the day on Wednesday. This, combined with some additional mid level energy, should result in some decent chances for showers and storms, especially across our southern areas. Highs on Wednesday will be in the 80 to 85 degree range. && .LONG TERM /WEDNESDAY NIGHT THROUGH MONDAY/... On Wednesday night, an upper level trough will be moving east through northern Quebec, with a second upper level trough moving ESE into the northern Great Lakes. To the south of these features, the flow over the Ohio Valley will be pivoting from northwesterly to westerly, as a a 700mb wave crosses through the area. A surge of theta-e in the low levels is expected heading into Wednesday night, though in reality, this may be disrupted somewhat by the Wednesday morning MCS. Impacts from that MCS will have effects on the forecast for Wednesday night and beyond, so overall confidence is fairly low. Most models do suggest an environment that may become favorable for additional storm development Wednesday night through early Thursday morning, so some PoPs will be maintained. The greatest chance for precipitation during this part of the forecast period will be on Thursday afternoon and evening. The warm sector will become established over the ILN CWA on Thursday, with an area of low pressure moving across the lower peninsula of Michigan, and a cold front trailing behind it to the southwest. This is still a few days away, but early indications are that instability and shear could both be just enough for some risk of strong storms. Cold frontal passage late Thursday into Friday morning will bring in a drier and slightly cooler air mass, with rain much less likely for Friday and Saturday. For Sunday and Monday, confidence is very low in the forecast specifics, but broad troughing will likely be settling into the eastern half of the CONUS, suggesting at least some chance for precipitation will exist. Thursday will likely be the warmest day of the extended period, with highs in the mid to upper 80s. Behind the cold front, Friday and Saturday will be cooler, with highs in the upper 70s to lower 80s. Some warming is possible thereafter. && .AVIATION /02Z TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY/... Thunderstorms have developed across central Indiana into west central Ohio this afternoon - in a region of low level theta-e advection, where moderate instability exists ahead of a southward advancing cold front. This cold front will push southeast into the region through this evening before stalling out near the Ohio River late tonight into Tuesday morning. Shower and thunderstorm will overspread the TAF sites early this evening with strong to damaging winds possible across the western TAF sites early. Have locally expanded the severe thunderstorm watch. Pcpn should then taper off through the overnight hours. Outside of the storms, areas of MVFR haze will persist into tonight. In addition, some MVFR cig development will be possible in the wake of the pcpn later tonight and into Tuesday morning. MVFR cigs will lift into VFR later Tuesday morning into the afternoon. OUTLOOK...Thunderstorms possible at times Tuesday night into Thursday. && .ILN WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... OH...None. KY...None. IN...None. && $$ SYNOPSIS...JGL NEAR TERM...AR SHORT TERM...JGL LONG TERM...Hatzos AVIATION...AR
Area Forecast Discussion...Updated
National Weather Service Lincoln IL
909 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .SYNOPSIS... Issued at 909 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 As a cold front slips southward through tonight, the persistent haze is expected to fade away by morning. A few showers and thunderstorms will continue late this evening south of a Jacksonville to Danville line, but will diminish from north to south overnight. Additional showers and thunderstorms are expected Tuesday and Tuesday night, but the trend for heavy rain is focusing more on an axis from west central Illinois into western Kentucky. && .UPDATE... Issued at 909 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Updates have been made for lingering thunderstorms streaming into the area from the northwest west of Springfield, but otherwise the front settling southward through the area, will bring stabilizing conditions gradually expanding southward tonight. Currently 2000-3000 J/kg MLCAPE remain south of I-72 along with near 40 kt effective bulk shear indicating a continued severe weather threat, but the axis of the shortwave enhancing lift and leading to earlier severe storms has nearly exited the area. A severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect from Shelby to Paris County southward until 11 PM, but current trends could lead to this watch ending early. Otherwise, lows still look to reach the upper 50s north of I-72, and low to mid 60s to the south. 37 && .SHORT TERM... (Through Late Tuesday Night) Issued at 317 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Main concerns in this period: 1) Convection through this evening, then MCS trends for Tuesday 2) Eventual waning of the haze/smoke layer Early afternoon weather map shows the cold front is located roughly from the northern St. Louis metro northeast to near Watseka. The storms that had been tracking southeast from Iowa have mostly skirted the forecast area, but recent development is near Springfield/Jacksonville and also from Bloomington to Danville. These have been robust at times, producing hail up to walnut size at Danville, and are occurring along an axis of 3000 J/kg SBCAPE. New SPC Day1 outlook upgraded to a level 2 (slight) risk from about I-72 southward. The trend will continue to shift southward through the evening as the front slips to near I-70. Trends with the Tuesday/Tuesday night MCS activity continue to shift a bit southward, with most of the CAM`s focusing on a corridor from near Quincy southeast into western Kentucky. This matches up with HREF ensemble means which are showing 1.5 to 2.5 inches of rain Tuesday afternoon/night in that area. MCS`s can be a bit finicky in their tracks, so only a small northward jog would easily get parts of our CWA into flash flood concerns. Will concentrate the highest PoP`s Tuesday night south of a Rushville- Paris line, and have lowered them north of I-74. Regarding the smoke, the ribbon of lower visibility has been shifting closer to I-72/Danville this afternoon. Latest RAP smoke model keeps it in this area south to I-70 through the night, though thinning with time. Will not mention any haze at this point for Tuesday, though there remains some concern it may still linger in that area. The vertically integrated smoke parameter shows the layer aloft moving out during the afternoon, and no correction to the sky grids was made after midday Tuesday. Geelhart && .LONG TERM... (Wednesday through Next Monday) Issued at 317 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Upper level pattern will be dominated by an amplifying ridge over the Rockies beginning on Thursday, gradually shifting east into early next week. This will keep us in more of a northwest flow, though a shortwave will be dropping southeast into the Great Lakes Wednesday night and Thursday. Longer range models suggest more of an MCS ridge-rider pattern early next week for our area with the amplifying high, though details this far out are sketchy. Temperatures below normal are expected this weekend with broad troughing over the eastern U.S., before starting to edge upward early next week as the ridge shifts toward the Plains. Geelhart && .AVIATION... (For the 00z TAFs through 00z Tuesday Evening) Issued at 629 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Wildfire smoke will start to clear out by later tonight. Scattered thunderstorms over west-central IL this evening will continue to expand east/southeast along a cold front, possibly clipping SPI, DEC, and CMI (near/south of I-72). West-northwest winds below 12 kts will become light overnight, gradually veering to a southeasterly direction by midday Tuesday. Delaney && .ILX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... None. && $$
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Indianapolis IN
935 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .Forecast Update... Issued at 934 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Bulk of the convection was moving out of central Indiana, however there was still a cell with rotation near Spencer coincident with 100 or so 0-1 and 0-3 km SRH, so will hold on to the Severe Thunderstorm Watch for now. Radar trends and CAMS still suggest more activity could move in late this evening and overnight, so will hold on to small PoPs through the night. Would not rule out some fog, especially in areas that saw the most precip as surface winds become light to calm. Otherwise, temperatures have fallen through the 60s behind the cold pool and upper 50s are possible over far northern NW sections in the wake of the advancing cold front, currently near the I-70 corridor. && .Short Term...(This evening through Tuesday) Issued at 307 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 - Chances for showers and storms late this afternoon and evening. - Improving Smoke conditions. - More chances for showers and storms on Tuesday afternoon. Surface analysis early this afternoon shows weak cyclonic flow across Central Indiana, associated with a large area of low pressure over eastern Ontario. A ridge of high pressure was found over the northern plains, nosing southeast into the middle Mississippi Valley. Aloft the broader pattern suggested a strong ridge over the western United States while a broad trough was found from the plains, across the Ohio Valley toward the Appalachians. A few embedded short waves were found within the cyclonic flow, over western KY and a second over IA, entering western IL. Skies remained smokey across Central Indiana, as air quality was Unhealthy for sensitive groups. PM2.5 values have improved to near 110 across much of the forecast area per airnow.gov. However, better air was found to the southwest with southerly winds in place. Tonight... The short wave over IL is expected to push across Central Indiana late this afternoon and into the evening. It still remains unclear if convective temps will be reached as smoke has limited max heating today. Still, ample forcing will be available through the evening as the short wave passes. Further forcing will be available as a weak surface cool front approaches the area. Forecast soundings continue to suggest a favorable column for convection, with over 1800 J/kg of CAPE available this afternoon and evening. HRRR continues to suggest scattered to isolated shower and storm development after 21Z, lingering through the late evening hours. Thus will continue the ongoing forecast with dry weather expected through at least 400PM, then continuing the chance to likely pops across the forecast area thereafter and through the evening. Lingering fog will be possible overnight due to earlier rainfall and dew point depressions of 2-3F overnight. Look for lingering high clouds in the wake of any convection overnight as the enforcing exits the area and low temperatures in the lower 60s. Tuesday... More showers and storms look possible on Tuesday. The upper flow across Indiana is expected to become more northwesterly. Indiana will be caught between strong high pressure aloft anchored over the American southwest and a trough of low pressure aloft across eastern Canada and the northeastern United States. Models suggest that within this resultant NW flow a quick moving short wave will approach central Indiana by mid to late afternoon, Once again ample moisture will remain present with dew points in the 60s. Weak surface convergence will be present also, as the lingering frontal boundary from tonight/s possible storms will remain in the area. Forecast soundings show reachable convective temps, but much shallower CAPE on Tuesday afternoon. Overall, enough thunderstorm ingredients appear to be present to necessitate the inclusion of at least chance pops during the afternoon on Tuesday as the short wave arrives in the area. Given the slightly cooler air mass in place across the area, highs near 80s will be expected at most spots. && .Long Term...(Tuesday night through Monday) Issued at 307 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 The long term will span the final days of the year`s climatologically hottest period...yet temperatures are progged to continue their near, to at times slightly below normal trend. Synoptically, a rather broad H500 trough will prevail over the eastern half of North America...while a hot upper ridge centered near the Four Corners extends northward into southwestern Canada. With the inflection point amid this wave hinged near Iowa, central Indiana will generally be influenced by weak disturbances embedded in the flow of the trough`s southwestern quadrant. Tuesday Night through Thursday... A more active pattern is expected for the mid-week as the upper trough first becomes better established near/east of the region. A more zonal pattern that should hold pronounced heat just to our south and west...will nevertheless focus so-called ridge-riding convective chances from the Middle Mississippi Valley towards Kentucky. This conditional opportunity for isolated to scattered showers/t-storms will be focused across southern portions of Indiana where deep moisture levels will approach 2.00 inches. Convective parameters will present conditional potential both days...with daytime CAPE ranging from around 1000 J/kg (Wednesday) to 2000 J/kg (Thursday)...with decent mid-level lapse rates Wednesday and lackluster amounts Thursday...yet all while the ridge gradient`s presence brings adequate vertical wind shear over the region both days. Late Thursday`s storm potential could also be enhanced by the trough`s weak wave/boundary passing just north of the region. Marginal severe threats would be primarily wind and large hail with limited amounts of low-level shear. The Wednesday night-Thursday tandem are expected to be the warmest of the long term, with lows 65- 70F and highs in the mid to upper 80s...with other periods at least a couple degrees lower amid this continued seasonable stretch of mid- summer conditions. Friday through Monday... A somewhat drier column will accompany seasonably weak, yet rather broad surface high pressure that should cross the Midwest late this week. Guidance is continuing to show a transition early next week as lower heights slide east and the hot, western ridge perhaps finally builds towards the Midwest. At a first glance a few pulse storms cannot be ruled out as a more summery pattern returns, with what should be low-moderate levels of both instability and wind shear. Most days surrounding this weekend are expected to bring highs 80-85F and lows 60-65F. && .Aviation...(00Z TAF Issuance) Issued at 615 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Impacts: - Thunderstorms accompanied by MVFR and worse conditions will likely impact the terminals through 03z and possibly later and also after 18z Tuesday - MVFR ceilings are possible away from thundersorms 03z-12z Discussion: Thunderstorms will roll across all but perhaps KLAF this evening before the activity diminishes. More MVFR conditions are also possible overnight away from convection. Finally, more convection is possible Tuesday afternoon. The storms this evening could be severe with large hail and possibly brief gusts to 50 knots in the heavier storms. && .IND WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... None. && $$ Update...MK Short Term...Puma Long Term...AGM Aviation...MK
AREA FORECAST DISCUSSION...UPDATED
National Weather Service Jackson KY
1127 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .UPDATE... Issued at 1127 PM EDT MON JUL 17 2023 A line of sub-severe storms and showers has held together long enough to enter the northern portion of the CWA. The line has become outflow dominant and should begin to weaken as it progresses southeast though the area and into a less favorable environment. areas along the I-64 corridor and farther east near WV are more likely to experience thunderstorms. A few sub-severe wind gusts of around 40 mph are possible and may warrant an SPS or two. CAMs do hint at isolated shower/storm activity farther south and west, warranting low chance PoPs for the overnight. UPDATE Issued at 742 PM EDT MON JUL 17 2023 Considerable uncertainty still remains in regards to the development of showers and storms along a front that is dropping southward through the Ohio Valley. CAMs do not show agreement for the overnight period with the HRRR on the dry side and the NAM Nest and ARW sending a decent MCS through eastern KY but vastly different timing. Have kept the precipitation forecast in tact from the day shift for now. Minor tweaks to the sky cover, T/Td, and wind grids have been made to account for the latest observation trends. && .SHORT TERM...(This evening through Tuesday night) Issued at 326 PM EDT MON JUL 17 2023 The surface analysis shows a cold front is heading toward the Ohio Valley. We saw some morning convection move through, and there are some subtle outflows as a result over the far east. Given this, we will see a few storms develop through the afternoon. The question comes for the late afternoon and evening, as cloud cover and some CIN have been an issue based on the latest mesoanalysis. Given this thinking, the best chances of strong storms would be generally north of the Mountain Parkway, and SPC did favor this in their 1630Z update. This leads to lots of uncertainty overnight and will be highly dependent on development this afternoon and evening. Overall, keep PoPs maxed in the chance range at 30 to 40 percent through the overnight given the spread in the CAMs. On Tuesday, the previously mentioned front will remain draped just to our north along the Ohio River. This will allow the weather to remain somewhat unsettled. However, we do see relatively lower PWAT values, and CAMs suggest less coverage overall on Tuesday. Given this, PoPs maxed out at around 30 percent through the day Tuesday, with perhaps some convection early before renewing in the afternoon. This will allow highs to top out in the mid- to upper 80s. By Tuesday night, guidance showed the potential for another MCS that could slide toward the Ohio Valley, with ample moisture in the mean PWAT values of 1.5 to 1.7 inches. There remains a fair amount of uncertainty about where this will actually end up going, and some of the early indications and trends in the ensembles have been more south and west. Right now, the greatest potential for flooding Tuesday night is across southern Illinois and western Kentucky, as CAMs align with this idea. Right now, we will stick with a mix of NBM and some forecaster adjustments given the recent trends. This will lead to a 50 to 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms through the night, but we could see this trending lower depending on how this MCS tracks. .LONG TERM...(Wednesday through Monday) Issued at 238 PM EDT MON JUL 17 2023 A rather active period is on tap as a strong ridge of high pressure remains in place over the Desert Southwest. While this ridge stays in place, upper-level flow will remain largely out of the northwest. Within the flow, multiple impulses are expected to move through the flow bringing period of rain through the early part of the period. The period begins with surface boundary draped over the CWA allowing for continued threat for showers and storms. Models are largely in agreement of multiple MCSs moving out the Central Plains riding along along the ridging into the Commonwealth. One of those MCSs is forecast to move through the region on Wednesday. The SPC has the area under a Day 3 Marginal and with time, that`ll likely be upgraded as confidence increases. Within the environment surrounding the showers and storms, PWs are rather high with values approaching almost 2.00" in places. If shower activity can be efficient, then hydro issues may be arise with the expected shower and storm activity. Fortunately, deterministic guidance has come down on overall QPF values through Thursday. Nonetheless, WPC has placed a large portion of the Commonwealth under a "Slight Risk" of excessive rainfall. A cold front is expected to move through the Commonwealth on Thursday and stall across the Tennessee Valley. This will keep showers and thunderstorms in the forecast through the day Thursday into Friday with lingering chances of showers and storms into Saturday before drying out for Sunday. However, the dry weather is short-lived as there`s some model agreement for another system into early next week. Nonetheless, the period will be highlighted by near seasonal temperatures but with above average precipitation and the potential for flooding issues through the end of the week. && .AVIATION...(For the 00Z TAFS through 00Z Tuesday evening) ISSUED AT 742 PM EDT MON JUL 17 2023 There remains considerable uncertainty regarding the development of showers and storms developing later this evening and into the overnight as a sluggish front drops southward. For now we will keep VCTS for the overnight hours at each of the TAF sites but amendments may be needed. Fog will mainly be contained within the river valleys but may impact the SME/LOZ sites before dawn. Winds have relaxed to around 5 knots or less and will be light and variable through the overnight before increasing to between 5-10 knots from the southwest after dawn. && .JKL WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... NONE. && $$ UPDATE...BATZ SHORT TERM...DJ LONG TERM...VORST AVIATION...BATZ
...UPDATED AVIATION FORECAST DISCUSSION...

.SYNOPSIS... Issued at 358 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Key Messages: - Severe weather appears likely across portions of north central and central Nebraska tonight. Wind damage is the primary threat with the potential for very large hail across far nrn Nebraska. - Severe weather could also develop elsewhere across western Nebraska tonight. - Along with the threat of severe weather tonight will be locally heavy rainfall which could cause flooding in some areas. - Weather conditions will continue to be favorable for severe weather at times Tuesday through Friday. && .SHORT TERM...(This evening through Tuesday night) Issued at 358 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 The 12z CAMs agree on the development of an organized cluster of storms across north central into central Nebraska. Isolated development is possible across southwestern areas. The NAM/NAMNest as well as the ECMWF generate heavy QPF across portions of north central into central Nebraska tonight into Tuesday morning. The POP forecast tonight leans toward the NAM/NAMNest which suggests likely storms across ncntl Nebraska. A strong disturbance is currently located from central Montana into southern Idaho. A backed southeast low level flow is established and SBCAPEs at 00Z this evening will range from 1500-2500 J/KG across the western Sandhills into far eastern WY and southeast MT. Effective bulk shear will be more than adequate to initiate storms and sustain long lived storms. Models, including the latest HRRR suggest isolated/scattered storms will form across eastern WY and track into southwest SD and western and north central Nebraska tonight. SPC continues a Slight Risk for severe weather east of Chadron through Broken Bow tonight with a marginal risk Tuesday morning. The significant hail outlook includes Sheridan and Cherry County. While large hail and damaging winds remain a threat across the remainder of the sight risk area, it will be interesting to see what happens in terms of hail and wind damage potential. The severe weather will be operating in an environment rich in moisture (PWAT 1.25 to around 1.50 inches). Tuesday, chance to likely POPS will linger Tuesday morning across the northeast where redevelopment behind the overnight convection would support a few strong storms. By afternoon, the upper flow become more zonal as an upper low moves across southern Saskatchewan and an upper ridge centered over New Mexico. Highs will be limited to the upper 70s to lower 80s across the east, with the strongest heating across the southeast panhandle and southwest with lower 90s. Isolated storms may develop across far southwest areas late afternoon and spread across the forecast area overnight. Models differ on coverage, with POPs limited to 20-30 percent overnight. Isolated strong storms are possible through at least the evening hours. .LONG TERM...(Wednesday through Monday) Issued at 358 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Wednesday, a weak cold front will move through, with highs ranging in the 80s. While the northwest Sandhills should remain dry, a slight chance for showers/thunderstorms elsewhere behind the front. Any development should be isolated, although a few strong storms are possible due to 0-6km shear from 40-45kts. A reinforcement of cooler air arrives Thursday with highs only from 76 to 83 forecast. There is a good chance however that storms will develop from southeast WY and northeast CO into southwestern areas during the afternoon and further east Thursday night. Thunderstorm chances remain Friday into Friday night with northwest flow aloft and sufficient deep layer shear. An upper level ridge across the desert Southwest will build north and east into Nebraska Saturday through Monday, as winds aloft weaken somewhat. The intense heat across the Southern and Southwestern U.S. will begin to be felt across western Nebraska with highs reaching the low to mid 90s by Sunday and Monday. && .AVIATION...(For the 00Z TAFS through 00Z Tuesday evening) Issued at 627 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 The main aviation concern surrounds scattered thunderstorm potential late this evening into the overnight for much of the Sandhills and portions of north central Nebraska, including KVTN terminal. Severe storms are possible with this activity including large hail, strong erratic winds, and heavy rainfall. The area of the greatest severe risk is across the northwest into northern Sandhills, impacting KVTN. Given that guidance continues to suggest direct impacts to the terminal, did include a TEMPO group from 05Z to 08Z to account for the strong wind gusts, lowered visibilities, and +TSRAGS potential. Future refinements are possible as the storms evolve over the next few hours. Though the strongest of storms are anticipated to remain north of KLBF, did include a brief mention of VCTS as guidance suggests some activity may reach the area. Confidence is low on specific impacts to KLBF terminal, thus future refinements and inclusion is possible given trends in storm evolution through the late evening/overnight. Ceilings begin to low in the wake of the departing storm complex around daybreak across much of the area bringing a brief period of MVFR/IFR conditions, impacting KLBF and KVTN. && .LBF WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... NONE. && $$ SYNOPSIS...Roberg SHORT TERM...Roberg LONG TERM...Roberg AVIATION...Viken
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Morristown TN
1020 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 ...New UPDATE... .UPDATE... Issued at 1012 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Hazy conditions continue tonight and are expected to continue across the valley until better convective mixing improves near- surface concentrations mid-morning Tuesday. The big weather question tonight will be if we remain dry. The 0z guidance did not initialize well with the convective complex near the Tennessee River in West Tennessee northward through western Kentucky. This convective complex is moving eastward and would reach the western edge of our forecast area at around 0730-0800z if it holds together. We expect a general decrease in this convection and anticipate it weakening over the next few hours as instability wanes, but there is at least a low (20 to 30 percent) chance of this holding together and bringing some showers and/or rumbles of thunder to portions of the area late tonight and early Tuesday. Model guidance continues to be very uncertain with potential weather conditions Tuesday afternoon and evening. A lot will depend on on-going convection to our west, residual outflow boundaries, and the strength/exact track of remnant MCVs. Have included low-end chance PoPs for most locations on Tuesday afternoon into the early overnight hours. JB && .SHORT TERM... (This evening through Tuesday) Issued at 308 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Key Messages: 1. Hazy skies continue today and tonight from Canadian wildfires 2. Chance for quick round of storms across northeast TN and southwest VA tonight Discussion: Currently hazy skies across much of the eastern Tennessee Valley as smoke funnels into the area from the wildfires across Canada. Smoke models are having a difficult time resolving how the smoke plumes interact with convection and outflows across the region. Have have gone more aggressive with haze wording in the forecast for the rest of today and into tonight. An Air Quality Alert is in effect for many places across eastern Tennessee for particulate matter through midnight. Smoke will likely remain overnight and into tomorrow, but most indicators point to conditions beginning to improve tomorrow with smoke density hopefully decreasing from west to east during the daytime...But still do expect another hazy/smoky sunrise tomorrow. Another round of convection will try and move southeast from KY tonight and possibly make a run towards northeast TN and southwest VA. Certainty on this occurring is low due to CAMs discrepancies with how these storms will strengthen and develop the rest of the afternoon. Have generally kept close to HRRR and NBM output showing that the convection strength and coverage will be limited with decreased moisture return and storms fighting against the hazy conditions. && .LONG TERM... (Tuesday night through next Monday) Issued at 308 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Key Messages: 1. Active weather pattern throughout the week with locally heavy rain possible. 2. Cooler temperatures for the weekend with very low rain chances. Discussion: The pattern over the eastern U.S. will be dominated by a trough through this forecast period. The trough and associated instability and abundant moisture will aid in thunderstorm development west of the forecast area each afternoon through the night starting Tuesday night. Rainfall, heavy at times, will extend into the morning hours. The heavy rainfall could become problematic for some areas, particularly those along and north of I-40. The PWATs are relatively high, moisture transport will peak over these areas during the best timing for the rain showers, and forecast soundings support efficient rainfall. Concern for flash flooding is in the moderate to high range for the Wed/Thu time frame. This coincides with WPC Excessive Rainfall Outlook (ERO) coordination. Needless to say but there will be multiple rounds of rainfall possible as wave after wave gets driven across KY/TN through the remainder of the week. By the weekend, the trough deepens enough to push a frontal boundary well into Georgia and Alabama. This should not only cool things off considerably (lower to mid 80s) but lessen rain chances through early next week. && .AVIATION... (00Z TAFS) Issued at 652 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Will keep prevailing smoke and haze through the night as HRRR near surface smoke does keep similar concentrations across the valley through about 14z Tuesday with VFR conditions and 4-5k few to sct clouds through the afternoon at all sites. Winds begin to shift to the WSW on Tuesday afternoon with low probs for thunderstorms near TYS and TRI late in the day. There is still considerable uncertainty in convective development and coverage late in the forecast period, so have included a prob30 group for TSRA at TYS and TRI late in the period. && .PRELIMINARY POINT TEMPS/POPS... Chattanooga Airport, TN 70 94 74 94 / 0 20 20 20 Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport, TN 68 91 72 89 / 10 30 30 40 Oak Ridge, TN 67 89 71 88 / 10 30 30 50 Tri Cities Airport, TN 63 87 67 83 / 10 30 40 60 && .MRX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... NC...NONE. TN...NONE. VA...NONE. && $$ SHORT TERM... LONG TERM....AC AVIATION...JB
...Updated Aviation Forecast Discussion...

.DISCUSSION... Issued at 312 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Key Messages: - There is a Slight Risk for severe weather after 1 AM tonight. There are two potential rounds. The first could have 60-75 mph wind gusts and large hail and should end by 6 AM. The 2nd possible round would take place in northeast Nebraska and could have damaging wind gusts and large hail. - There is a Marginal Risk for severe weather on Wednesday evening. - Cooler temperatures are forecast to end the week. Today and Tomorrow: Early morning severe weather was observed in the area this morning producing golf ball sized hail near Leigh, Nickerson, and Arlington. The hail continued into southwest Iowa where Malvern observed ping pong sized hail. Severe weather will continue to be the story as there is a Slight Risk (Level 2 out 5) for storms after 1 AM and continuing until noon tomorrow. There is some uncertainty into how the situation will play out during the overnight hours as there could be potentially two rounds of storms. The first round of storms are expected to develop in Wyoming and western Nebraska along the peak of a ridge of theta-e. This will also be co-located with a minor disturbance in the upper level flow. Initially, these will be capable of producing large hail up to 2 inches (remember, that`s way out west). CAM guidance shows these storms combining into an MCS or a linear line and following the edge of the theta-e ridge southeast across the state. The line is expected to maintain its strength as it moves to the southeast and the low level jet strengthens. Potentially significant damaging wind gusts will be possible as runs of the HRRR show 60 to 75 mph wind gusts moving through the area. Hail will also be possible with mid-level lapse rates between 7.5-8.0 C/km. Confidence is higher in this first round of precipitation. CAMs are showing potential for a 2nd round, farther to the north as the theta-e ridge shifts to the west and warm-air advection initiates storms. The lapse rates aren`t as impressive farther to the north in the mid-morning hours, but severe weather will be possible with 0-6 km shear between 50 to 60 kts. With upper level winds oriented along the elevated warm front, there is potential for localized flash flooding if storms train along that front. Outside of storm potential, there will be a large gradient in temperatures across the area, especially if the 2nd round of precipitation does materialize. The forecast is for upper 70s in northeast Nebraska and western Iowa and upper 80s in southern Nebraska where clearing will happen earlier in the day. Wednesday through Sunday: An upper level low is forecast to trek across southern Canada. It will bring with it a cool front which will lead to a chance for precipitation and thunderstorms Wednesday afternoon and evening. The NBM came in a bit low on precipitation chances so PoPs were upped in collaboration with neighboring offices. Upper level flow will maintain its strength. So there should be adequate shear and instability to support a severe weather risk as evidenced by the SPC forecast of a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5). Height falls at the mid-levels and a trough building over the Ohio River Valley will lead to cooler end to the week with temperatures in the low to mid 80s. These days are expected to be dry with precipitation chances remaining below 15%. Into the weekend, a strong ridge will again build over the West Coast which is unfortunate for residents of that area as it has already been under oppressive heat for some time. Nebraska and Iowa won`t see oppressive heat, but mid-level heights will increase over the area and temperatures are forecast to return to the 90s. At this time, PoPs are low for the weekend but with strong northwest flow overhead, it wouldn`t be surprising to see isolated storms as the area has observed commonly the past few days. && .AVIATION...(For the 00Z TAFS through 00Z Tuesday evening) Issued at 626 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Main concern of the forecast period continues to be showers and storms that become possible late this evening into the overnight hours and tomorrow morning. KLNK has the highest potential of seeing stronger storms that will form well to the northwest and affect the TAF site around 09z. Both KOFK and KLNK are likely to see two sets of showers and storms move through while KOMA stays northeast of the initial activity. Lightning doesn`t appear like it will be constant outside of KLNK`s initial round of storms, so light rain may be the predominant weather for parts of the morning. Aside from the brief dips into MVFR and potentially IFR conditions with the stronger storms, VFR conditions are forecast with southeasterly winds tomorrow. && .OAX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... NE...None. IA...None. && $$ DISCUSSION...Fajman AVIATION...Petersen
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Nashville TN
822 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 ...New UPDATE... .UPDATE... Issued at 815 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Our eyes are back to the northwest monitoring the trends with the cluster of storms south of Paducah moving ESE. Closer to home, the 00z OHX sounding showed 1600 J/kg of MLCAPE but mesoanalysis shows values closer to 2500 J/kg along the Tennessee River. Effective bulk shear values are around 25-30 kts. The CAPE will decrease as the evening continues and the HRRR insists the storms will become disorganized and weaker as the approach the NW. I feel fairly confident in the HRRR solution given the recent trends of warmer cloud tops as seen on IR. A couple of storms are possible this evening, but I think they will remain sub severe. The forecast is on track and only minor changes were made to hourly PoP grids. && .SHORT TERM... (This afternoon through Tuesday Night) Issued at 214 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 I don`t usually do this, but I`ve sat here for 10 minutes trying to decide what to type. My struggles revolve around the lack of any consistency between models when it comes to storm development and/or evolution today. Storms that I mentioned in this morning`s update fell apart and are barely a couple of clouds in the sky at forecast time. That has to be related to some amount of subsidence over central Kentucky and a good portion of Middle TN that`s being seen right now. Based on visible satellite, there`s almost zero cumulus development this area (though some mid-to-high clouds exist). I have to believe this won`t be the case as we move into the late afternoon and early evening hours. More storms are firing up over Missouri as I type this and with general troughiness over the TN Valley, at some point, I would expect convection to make its way into the mid-state. I don`t think everyone sees rain today, but we should get at least some storms. Everything I mentioned in this morning`s update stands in regards to environmental analysis: CAPE has climbed near 3000 J/Kg in our west, mid-level lapse rates are creeping towards 7.0 degrees and bulk shear values are still around 30 kts -- we just need some lift -- and with this environment, a few storms could be strong to severe. Damaging winds would be the main concern. && .LONG TERM... (Wednesday through next Monday) Issued at 214 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 It`s really amazing how models are holding onto this Omega pattern. The upper level low over Canada and the strong upper ridge stretching from California to Arklatex continue to put the Tennessee, Mid-Mississippi and lower Ohio Valleys into this northwest flow for most of this forecast package. This will give us at least chance PoPs throughout and while we are still seeing a weak frontal passage Friday, by the end of the weekend, we`re right back into the same pattern. In the end, because of this pattern, consistent, good PoP forecasts are going to be hard to come by. So, I have to carry a chance PoP throughout the week and we`ll have to see about storm cluster and any MCS development as it comes. In regards to the heat this week, I still like the potential for a heat advisory on Wednesday, with Heat Index values expected to be into the triple digits for the western 2/3 of Middle TN. However, the verification of these higher temperatures are going to hinge greatly on timing of any storms we see this week. For instance, there are several indications of a MCS development late tomorrow night and into the morning hours on Wednesday. Something like this would greatly hurt the potential for getting that warm, even though temperature guidance has been very consistent for several days now of showing Wednesday as the hottest day this week. In any event, even low to mid 90s with dew points in the 70s -- while not advisory level heat -- will still be uncomfortable. && .AVIATION... (00Z TAFS) Issued at 625 PM CDT Mon Jul 17 2023 A complex of storms currently over Missouri and Arkansas is steadily tracking this way. Tempos are in at all terminals for best timing of impacts. MVFR vsbys will be possible during these storms with wind gusts up to 25-30 kts possible. Once storms clear terminal sites, mainly high level sct clouds expected through the night with calm winds. Fog/haze is possible overnight at CKV/SRB/CSV. More storms are possible by 12Z, but confidence in storm coverage is low, so sticking with VCTS at BNA/MQY/CKV for now. Winds will be out of the WSW by 18Z. && .PRELIMINARY POINT TEMPS/POPS... Nashville 71 92 75 96 / 30 40 40 30 Clarksville 69 91 74 95 / 40 40 50 30 Crossville 62 85 67 86 / 20 40 50 50 Columbia 68 92 74 96 / 20 30 20 20 Cookeville 66 87 71 88 / 30 40 60 40 Jamestown 64 84 68 85 / 30 50 70 50 Lawrenceburg 67 92 73 95 / 10 30 20 20 Murfreesboro 68 92 73 95 / 20 40 30 30 Waverly 67 91 74 95 / 30 40 30 20 && .OHX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... None. && $$ UPDATE.......Reagan SHORT TERM...Unger LONG TERM....Unger AVIATION.....Baggett
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Raleigh NC
905 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .SYNOPSIS... A weak surface trough will hold over the North Carolina Piedmont through mid week, as a warm and humid air mass persists over the region. && .NEAR TERM /TONIGHT/... As of 905 PM Monday... Water vapor this evening depicted continued troughing along the eastern seaboard downstream of an anomalous ridge anchored over the southwest US. While southwest flow is present aloft over central NC, perturbations in the flow and associated convection has been displaced offshore. Wnwly flow is expected to continue just above the sfc promoting dry conditions through the overnight period. However, smoke associated with Canadian fires will continue to envelope our area through tomorrow afternoon. Consequently, a code orange air quality alert remains in effect for most of central NC through Tuesday night. Otherwise, warm overnight lows in the upper 60s/lower 70s are expected tonight. && .SHORT TERM /TUESDAY THROUGH TUESDAY NIGHT/... As of 139 PM Monday... The mid/upr short wave trough axis currently just west of the mountains will move east and gradually cross our area during the late afternoon. Given the dry air that we`re currently seeing to our west and southwest, the west to southwest flow ahead of the trough axis won`t be advecting much moisture into our area. Still, forecast soundings do show a gradual/modest uptick in PWAT (climbing to around 1.4-1.5 inches by late afternoon) and sfc dwpts...with highest dwpts across our eastern zones as is typically the case. As such, with the arrival of the trough axis and assoc large scale ascent, coupled with cooling aloft as noted on forecast soundings, locations that see the highest dwpts... mainly our eastern zones... will be able to realize building cu with max afternoon heating, perhaps building deep enough to support a few widely scattered showers. Across our western zones, dwpts are likely to remain just low enough to result in thinner CAPE profiles. That coupled with the lingering mid-level dry air should result in shallower cu and mostly preclude the risk for shower activity. With the same airmass as today, look for persistent highs...low-mid 90s. By Tuesday evening the trough axis should be to our east, thus look for partly cloudy and dry weather for Tuesday night. Lows from around 70 north to mid 70s south. && .LONG TERM /WEDNESDAY THROUGH MONDAY/... As of 330 PM Monday... Mid to late week will be hot as the upper level ridge over the Southwest US slowly expands to the east by late week. Wednesday will remain mostly dry before a short wave moves into the Carolinas late afternoon early evening bringing a chance of showers and storms across the region. Depending on timing of the developing storms, will also depend on temperatures and how high heat indices will be. For now, areas along and east of the US1 corridor are expected to reach heat indices of 100 to 107 degrees Wednesday afternoon. As the short wave moves across the region Wednesday night a Piedmont trough develops which is will increase chance showers Thursday and Friday afternoon/evening. Temperatures these days will range from low 90s in NW to upper 90s SE. With dew points forecast to be in the mid to upper 70s this will result in heat indices of 100 NW to 109 SE both days. Over the weekend strong surface low over the lower Great Lakes lifts to NE with a trailing cold front over the Carolinas and into the lower MS valley. As the front sags just to the south of the region, slight to chance PoPs remain in the forecast for the afternoon/evening hours with the best chance of showers and thunderstorms in the southern half of the CWA. With the passing of the cold front, temperatures will be just below normal with highs in the mid to upper 80s and lows in the mid to upper 60s. && .AVIATION /00Z TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY/... As of 740 PM Monday... With very little to no clouds and dry weather dominating for the next 24 hours, the main aviation story remains the areas of smoke and haze that have brought down air quality and have generated MVFR vsbys over the western and southern portions of the forecast area, including INT/GSO, for much of the day. Output from the HRRR Smoke model suggests that this smoke may thin/disperse very gradually through Tue while shifting slowly eastward, but it may continue to knock down vsbys to 4-6SM through much of Tue across E sections, while INT/GSO should start to improve back to VFR after 14z Tue morning. Just a few high-based cu and high thin clouds are otherwise expected Tue. Surface winds will be light and variable through mid morning, then be from the W then WSW and SW from late morning through the end of the TAF period. Looking beyond 00z Wed, a few showers and isolated storms can`t be ruled out late Tue night in the NW (near INT/GSO) and again areawide late Wed, but otherwise VFR conditions will dominate. Shower/storm chances will start to increase from Thu onward, mainly late in the day, and pockets of early-morning fog will return late in the week as well. -GIH && .RAH WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... None. && $$ SYNOPSIS...Hartfield NEAR TERM...Luchetti SHORT TERM...np LONG TERM...CA AVIATION...Hartfield
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Blacksburg VA
1003 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .SYNOPSIS... High pressure will be shifting to the south through Tuesday. A front pushes into the Ohio Valley and mid-Atlantic toward Wednesday. This is going to increase the chance for storms Wednesday into Thursday. && .NEAR TERM /THROUGH TUESDAY/... As of 950 PM EDT Monday... Lowered probability of precipitation tonight... Cluster of thunderstorms in the piedmont continues to weaken as the air mass becomes more stable. Latest CONSShort and HRRR guidance have the probability of precipitation confined to the mountains overnight. Some of the Hi-Res models had isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms tracking out of the Tennessee Valley and reaching the mountains around 09Z/3AM. Haze was no longer in any regional observations, but expect a brief period of fog where there was rain this afternoon and evening. Fog will also develop along the New and Greenbrier Rivers with visibility less than 1/2 mile in pockets after midnight. Only minor changes made to temperatures overnight. Previous discussion... The northwest upper flow has pushed smoke from western Canada wildfires into the central Appalachians and Mid-Atlantic region. Expect hazy skies this afternoon into tonight due to the smoke. High pressure at the surface will be pinched southward by a eastward moving cold front that reaches Ohio Valley by late tonight. A shortwave will move east across the region this afternoon into tonight. Instability subsides tonight, but another decent wave pushes across the TN Valley to Ohio Valley after midnight which due to sharpness of the trough should provide showers/maybe a thunderstorm across the mountains. Another shortwave will rotate around the broad upper trough Tuesday. This will result in scattered showers and thunderstorms with the best chances in during the afternoon. Forecast confidence is Moderate during the Near Term Period. && .SHORT TERM /TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH THURSDAY NIGHT/... As of 200 PM EDT Monday... Unsettled weather expected Wednesday and Thursday... The deterministic models are in good agreement that the eastern U.S. remains under a broad upper level trough, with embedded short waves moving through the region. While there is some uncertainty with the timing of these shortwaves, there appears to be at least a couple of opportunities for clusters of storms to impact our area during the short term period. The first wave comes through Wednesday and with slightly above average PWAT values and anomalously high CAPE and shear values, mainly in SW VA/NW NC, forecast by both the SREF and the ECMWF extreme forecast index, there is the potential for locally heavy rain and damaging winds. This threat will continue to be highlighted in the HWO. A stronger signal for the potential for severe weather is on Thursday as shown by both the CSU Machine Learning Probabilities Prediction page and the ECMWF extreme forecast index. With upper level winds increasing, a jump in PWAT values, and the GEFS showing a high probability of CAPES exceeding 1000 j/kg, along with a sfc boundary moving through, expect strong to severe storms to develop. The day with the greatest uncertainty in the short term period, is Friday as the deterministic models show large differences with the amount of drying and the forecast position of the low level boundary that pushes through Thursday. The multi-model ensemble output suggests a deeper upper level trough and a more southern location of the surfaced boundary is the most likely scenario, so placed lowest POPs in the short term period on this day. Deviated little from the NBM temp forecast with temperatures close to normal during the period. && .LONG TERM /FRIDAY THROUGH MONDAY/... As of 200 PM EDT Monday... Slightly below normal temperatures expected... The long range deterministic models and ensembles show a strong signal for a an anomalously deep upper level trough over our area with 500mb heights at least two standard deviations below normal. This will result in lower humidity levels and below normal temperatures through the period. As for precipitation chances, while PWAT values will be below normal during the period, an increasing low level easterly flow may bring enough shallow moisture to spawn scattered showers/isolated storms with chances increases through the long term period. && .AVIATION /02Z TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY/... As of 755 PM EDT Monday... Isolated thunderstorms were moving across southwest Virginia and will impact KROA at the start of the TAF forecast period. Wind gusts of 30 to 40kts have been observed upstream of the airport. Once this storm goes east of KROA is moves into an environment that is not as unstable. For now have no tsra in at KLYH but will monitor. Otherwise still some MVFR visibility with haze. Expect KLWB to drop to LIFR overnight with fog after 07Z/3AM. KBCB will likely also have MVFR to IFR fog tonight. Once the fog burns off in the morning there will be residual haze but low confidence on any MVFR visibility for Tuesday. RAP guidance and some other Hi-Res models suggested scattered showers and thunderstorms from the Tennessee Valley may reach western Virginia early Tuesday morning. So have VCSH in the KBLF and KBCB TAFs. Once again scattered thunderstorms are expected in the afternoon. The probability is more favorable in the mountains. Average confidence for ceiling, visibility, and wind EXTENDED AVIATION OUTLOOK... The next chance for possibly sub-VFR with showers/storms will be Wednesday-Thursday with a slow moving front. Also, late night fog/low stratus possible at LWB and perhaps BCB. Unsettled weather continues Friday, then drier conditions arrive for Saturday into Sunday. && .RNK WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... VA...None. NC...None. WV...None. && $$ SYNOPSIS...PM/WP NEAR TERM...AMS/KK SHORT TERM...PH LONG TERM...PH AVIATION...AMS/KK
Area Forecast Discussion For Western SD and Northeastern WY
National Weather Service Rapid City SD
528 PM MDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .DISCUSSION...(This Evening Through Monday) Issued at 125 PM MDT Mon Jul 17 2023 The main forecast impacts are (1) the chance of thunderstorms, some severe, tonight and (2) the ongoing smoky and hazy conditions. Confidence is low in the coverage and evolution of storms tonight, but if they do get going confidence is high that they will be severe. Confidence is medium that the smoke will be diminishing overnight and Tuesday, but this smoke and haze also may return on Wednesday. The latest water vapor images show a potent trough and jet stream approaching the CWA, but with plenty of midlevel and upper-level clouds ahead of it. The combination of warm midlevel temperatures and the smoky skies (reducing insolation) has resulted in a very strong cap, with MLCIN of -100 to -400 J/kg at 1900z. Thus, would be very surprised to see any organized thunderstorms develop before 22z. The most likely scenario is thunderstorms developing over the higher terrain of MT/WY later this afternoon and moving over the CWA this evening and overnight. Sounding profiles suggest the storms will be mostly elevated, with large hail being the primary threat given strong 0-6km shear and MUCAPE of 2500+ J/kg. The convection-allowing models (CAMs) are struggling with the evolution of the storms (likely because of the strong cap), with the HRRR being conspicuously weak in the depiction of storms compared to the bullish NSSL-WRF. After the wave pushes through overnight, the thunderstorm and severe threat (whatever that turns out to be tonight) will be much less on Tuesday. However, as an upper low spins to our north across southern Canada we still will have a surface trough and 50s to lower 60s dewpoints lingering across the southern/eastern CWA, so cannot rule out some strong storms in those areas. Beyond that the weather will be relatively quiet Wednesday into Thursday, but another wave in the northwest flow aloft will bring more chances of thunderstorms later Thursday and Thursday night, especially across the southwestern CWA. Hazy/smoky skies will persist through tonight, but should diminish Tuesday. RAP/HRRR smoke models then hint at more haze/smoke moving into the CWA behind a front on Wednesday as the surface flow turns northwest again. Models/ensembles then suggest a ridge building more toward our CWA late this week into early next week, which would results in warmer and drier conditions. We might even see our first 90-degree readings for the year at the office. However, much uncertainty in this still exists given the relatively green conditions and persistent upper low to our northeast. && .AVIATION...(For the 00Z TAFS Through 00Z Tuesday Evening) Issued At 524 PM MDT Mon Jul 17 2023 Low VFR to MVFR VSBY in smoke/haze may return overnight, with gradual improvement expected on Tuesday. Scattered thunderstorms currently over northeastern Wyoming will spread eastward across western South Dakota this evening. Isolated to scattered thunderstorms will then occur over parts of western South Dakota until around 12Z on Tuesday morning. && .UNR WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... SD...None. WY...None. && $$ DISCUSSION...Bunkers AVIATION...10
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Las Vegas NV
903 PM PDT Mon Jul 17 2023 .SYNOPSIS...Showers and storms possible this afternoon for areas along and north of the Interstate 15 corridor, as well as the Arizona Strip. Strong outflow winds and lightning are the main concerns. Convective activity shifts poleward tomorrow, primarily focused in our northern areas. Outside of any precipitation, excessive heat will continue through the week across the Mojave Desert and northwestern Arizona. && .UPDATE...The 12Z HRRR did quite well this afternoon with regard to timing and placement of convection. A stubborn cell with multiple updrafts, 4 Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, 1 Flash Flood Warning, and 1 Flood Advisory persisted over Black Mountain, Henderson, and southeastern Las Vegas through much of the afternoon. Coldest observed cloud tops were around -58C and highest thunderstorm- related wind gust was 64 mph with heavy rain and pea-sized hail reported. Otherwise, we had convection in San Bernardino, southern Lincoln, and across the Arizona Strip that had sub-severe gusty winds and cloud-to-ground lightning. In general, most storms across the forecast area have subsided with sunset, though a line of storms from Colorado City southeastward to the Mohave County / Yavapai County border persists as of 2035 PDT. Tuesday, forecast HRRR convection is fairly in-line with forecast RAP 500mb vorticity advection - focusing primarily on the southwestern Great Basin across northern Inyo, Esmeralda, and southern Nye counties as well as portions of the eastern Mojave Desert in northern Mohave County. PWATs between 0.80 and 1.00 inches paint the forecast area, with localized flooding a potential concern with stronger cells tomorrow. Allowed the Excessive Heat Warning for the southern Great Basin and Heat Advisory for the Clark County Mountains expire on time this evening. The Excessive Heat Warning will continue for the Mojave Desert through Saturday. No changes were made to this evening`s forecast, as it looks to be in good shape. && .PREVIOUS DISCUSSION...1132 AM PDT Mon Jul 17 2023/ .SHORT TERM...Today and Tuesday. The 500mb high has retreated into east-central AZ, allowing south- southeasterly flow to advect in more moisture. This is not only evident in the increased mid-level clouds, but surface observations as well. 24-hour dewpoint changes at 16z are as high as +25 degrees in the Las Vegas Valley. This morning`s 12z sounding recorded 0.85" of PWAT, a jump of over 0.5" from yesterday at 12z. Increased moisture and cooler temperatures aloft due to the retreating high will fuel isolated to scattered afternoon thunderstorms. Model guidance continues to show convection focused along/north of the I- 15 corridor, as well as the Arizona Strip, though I would not completely rule out an isolated storm or two farther south. Modeled instability wanes with northward extend, so convection in Inyo, Nye, Esmeralda, and the northern half of Lincoln Counties should be less robust than storms along the I-15 corridor. 12z HREF mean depicts CAPE values of 250-750 J/kg over most of San Bernardino, Clark, Mohave, and southern Lincoln Counties. As excessive heat continues in the presence of modest moisture, deep inverted-V profiles with DCAPE values around 2000 J/kg will exist across the area. This means any shower/storm will likely produce gusty outflow winds. Given the parameter space and expected storm coverage, the best chance of severe thunderstorm winds is the I-15 corridor from Barstow to Mesquite. HREF confirms this analysis by placing 10% probability of 50kt wind contours in this area. Fortunately, dry low-levels will mitigate flash flood potential. As far as timing goes, convection is expected to develop around 1pm, and wane around sunset. Storms are possible once again Tuesday afternoon, but activity is expected to be focused in the northern 1/3 of the area, as well as the AZ Strip. Similar to today, gusty winds and lightning will be the main concerns. Outside of any convective activity, excessive heat will persist, particularly for the Mojave Desert and northwestern AZ. Tomorrow`s temperatures should cool sufficiently for the Excessive Heat Warning to be expired in Lincoln, central Nye, and Esmeralda counties. Elsewhere however, dangerous heat is expected to continue into next weekend, with Major to Extreme HeatRisk lingering. As such, the Excessive Heat Warning for these areas was extended until Saturday. .LONG TERM...Wednesday through Sunday. Drier southwest flow continues to look more probable over most of our region Wednesday through Friday compared to Monday and Tuesday as ensemble means indicate our strong ridge to shift more over eastern Arizona/New Mexico and Texas. EC/GEFS PWAT anomalies shift to below normal through the end of the week and begin to recover heading into next weekend. During this time, high temperatures will vary only a few degrees up or down, but remaining at major to extreme heat risk levels, especially with the duration of these above normal temperatures persisting several days. Thus, the Excessive Heat Warning has been extended through Saturday. Heading into late next weekend and early next week, there continues to be little sign of significant temperature relief other than increased moisture moving into the region. Day 8-9 cluster analysis indicates that the western ridge will reposition itself and deepen yet again, perhaps over the El Paso area. At the same time, PWAT anomalies now swing to above average setting the stage for potential monsoon activity. NBM does paint 20-40% PoPs across Mohave by early next week as well in line with the ensemble suggestions. && .AVIATION...For Harry Reid...Gusty, south to southwest winds can be expected through this afternoon, with isolated areas of convection possible mid-afternoon through early evening. Most of this activity is likely to remain over the higher terrain surrounding the Vegas Valley, but erratic outflow winds from the storms may impact operations at the field, most likely between 3 PM and 7 PM when gusts to 40kts are possible. Any thunderstorm activity that does develop should end by sunset. Winds will remain southerly overnight into Tuesday morning before becoming gusty out of the south again Tuesday afternoon. Outside of thunderstorm activity, no significant cloud cover is expected. For the rest of southern Nevada, northwest Arizona and southeast California...Isolated areas of convection are possible this afternoon, mainly across the higher terrain north of I-15 in Nevada and California. Gusty and erratic outflow winds to 40kts are the primary concern with any storms that do develop. Away from thunderstorms, winds generally less than 15kts following typical diurnal patterns are expected, along with a few clouds AOA 15kft. && .SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...Spotters are encouraged to report any significant weather or impacts according to standard operating procedures. && $$ UPDATE...Varian SHORT TERM...Woods LONG TERM...TB3 AVIATION...Planz For more forecast information...see us on our webpage: https://weather.gov/lasvegas or follow us on Facebook and Twitter