Wheeling, W. VA (WTRF) – The stage is set for out next weather system to move in as we head into the end of the week. Details are starting to become clear with model continuity as we approach Friday. Here is what we know.
The setup
The center of low-pressure that will influence the Ohio Valley will lift out of the Four Corners region and advance northeast Thursday evening into early Friday morning.
The setup favors the Ohio Valley to be within the warm sector of the system and keep our precipitation all rain. One variable that still needs fine tuned are temperatures and if we start out with any mixed precip/freezing rain. The best chance of freezing rain and snow looks to be across areas northeast of Pittsburgh.
Temperatures are expected to warm past midnight with a rather dreary looking day expected. Rain totals of 1 – 2 inches are possible, which could lead to flooding in the poor drainage/typical prone to flooding areas.
The Weather Prediction Center has outlined Southeastern Ohio in a Slight Risk for flash flooding. The Panhandle and immediate Eastern Ohio are in a Marginal Risk for flash flooding. Poor drainage areas along with the typical prone to flooding areas could experience ponding waters.
The last variable that will be impactful include the winds.
Winds will be noticeable, especially for the afternoon and evening hours. Winds will blow from the east around 20-30 mph with gusts exceeding 45 plus mph. This could result in power outages and uprooted trees due to saturated soils.
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