Tracking a sunny and mild homecoming weekend

TODAY: Thursday is a warmer day, after another cold start. Temperatures will again be near freeze and frost territory depending on location early, but temperatures climb into the high 60s this afternoon. South winds will be breezy, and the main reason we warm so quickly. Dry air helps us warm, but the combination of wind, warmth, and dry air and land will all create an elevated fire risk. Burning is not recommended.

TONIGHT: South winds will be light, but continue overnight, keeping most in the 40s.

EXTENDED: Clear and warm conditions continue through the weekend. Expect sunshine and 70s Friday through Sunday. Friday may pose another risk for elevated fire danger. A trough in the upper atmosphere approaches by Sunday night, and will drive a cold front at the surface near Monday afternoon and evening, into our western counties. A slim rain chance comes with it. By Tuesday, this becomes a stationary front laid across the region, leaving us drier, but with some clouds. On Wednesday, this looks to get pushed through with or as a cold front. This brings another slim chance for rain.