A HOT End to April! - FOX Carolina 21

A HOT End to April!

Good morning!  It was a warm overnight - it's definitely that time of year where we leave the fans and A/C going, and the comforters and heavy blankets get tossed onto the floor!  This morning most thermometers are reporting temps in the low to mid 60s - while some WNC spots are in the mid to upper 50s.

Heat will be the big story as we go through the upcoming week, as highs will be at least ten degrees above-normal over the next several days.  This afternoon we'll rise into the low 80s in the Mountains, while Upstate highs will reach the mid 80s. 

By mid to late-afternoon, the heat of the day could help to instigate scattered showers and t-storms, particularly in the Mountains.  Heavy downpours and frequent lightning will be possible within any storm - so definitely keep an eye out if you're spending time outdoors.  A few stronger storms will be possible as well, with hail or gusty winds possible.  Showers and storms should quiet down by late-evening.

Tomorrow will be the first day of May - and the forecast will be nearly the same!  Highs will reach the low to mid 80s with a few late-day showers and t-storms.  By mid and late-week, rain/thunderstorm chances will go down and the heat will go up!  High pressure - characterized by sinking air - will settle over our region, keeping us mainly dry. 

The NWS wisely pointed out that the sinking air (combined with high heat/plenty of sun) late-week could promote some air quality issues, so that's something we'll watch for by Friday.  Temps will get close to 90° in the Upstate by the second half of the work and school week, while Mountain temps will be in the mid 80s... so keep the fans going, and stay hydrated!