Tracking warmth, a cold front, and weekend rain
TODAY: We're tracking a warmer day ahead, with southwest winds around 10-20 mph today, expect a quick warm up. Temperatures are likely to reach 60s this afternoon. Mid-to-high clouds are moving in. Depending on the coverage, timing, and opacity of the clouds, we could reach mid-to-upper 60s. However, clouds are likely in some fashion through the morning and afternoon, so we've settled the forecast high for Columbia near 64.
TONIGHT: Southerly flow does not remain for all overnight. We'll be tracking a "back door cold front" one that slides in from the northeast, bringing some low clouds and cooler air with it.
EXTENDED: Temperatures start in the 40s early Friday morning, and for some near Paris, temperatures may not climb out of the 40s through the day, thanks to the cold front. However, the front may be slower to arrive in Columbia, Jefferson City, and especially the Lake of the Ozarks. This means, we can expect warmer temperatures in these locations. Columbia and Jefferson City, may be able to warm into the upper 50s before the front arrives, while it may not even make it to the lake. This would result in another day in the 60s there. Temperatures warm again on Saturday, ahead of our next round of rain. With thickening clouds, expect a high in the 50s, with rain holding off until after the dinner hour. Rain chances grow overnight, as showers arrive, lasting into Sunday morning. Not much rain is expected, with totals near the lake reaching up to a quarter of an inch. We'll stay mild through the weekend and into next week, with highs near 50. Drier weather returns Monday, lasting through Wednesday.
