Summer weather continues before strong cold front
It is still the summer season and the weather over the next two days will keep reminding us of that fact. With highs in the mid 80s today and even warmer temps for Thursday, the pools and the beaches will still be great options to stay cool. But that powerful cold front will really bring us down in terms of high temperatures. Thursday looks like one of, if not the, last summer day in Michiana as highs climb around 15 degrees above average. Afterwards, we go back to normal, if not a little cooler as fall starts.
And taking a closer look at Thursday, we may be so warm that we start to approach some records, especially for areas farther south who have the best shot at 90 degrees. Even along the Toll Road, we won't be too far away from the 3rd and 4th place spots with temperatures peaking in the upper 80s. So again, continue to find ways to stay cool and hydrated before fall sets in.
As you're going about your Thursday, you'll probably notice the wind speed increasing slowly, especially if you'll be outside during the afternoon. Along with the warm, even hot, temperatures we're expecting tomorrow, the wind will be picking up out of the southwest. Gusts will probably top out around 25 mph during the day, but they'll continue to grow after the sun goes down Thursday night into Friday. During the overnight hours, gusts climb to 35, maybe even 40 mph. That could bring down some small limbs, and potentially cause some isolated power outages. The windy weather continues into Friday and shifts directions after the cold front moves through, but the weekend looks much calmer.
Along with the wind, storms are possible early Thursday morning as the low pressure system gets closer. Only the toll road and the Michigan counties have the best chance of seeing a stronger storm, mainly before lunch time. Downpours, gusty winds, and some small hail are the primary concerns for these morning storms. Tornadoes aren't likely and flash flooding is not a main concern. This is something to keep in mind when heading out the door tomorrow. Have the umbrella ready to go again.