GREENVILLE, S.C. (FOX Carolina) – The Western Carolinas kicks into summer mode this week as a strong area of high pressure locks in place, delivering exceptional warmth and sunshine. A cold front arrives late Sunday with minimal rain, then near-normal temperatures return early next week.
Tuesday: The Heat Begins
Sunny skies dominate your Tuesday as afternoon highs climb into the mid-to-upper 80s across the Western Carolinas, with 70s in the highest elevations. Light southwest winds gust to 20 mph during the afternoon.
Wednesday Through Saturday: Exceptional Heat and Record Challenges
This is where things get impressive. From Wednesday through Saturday, the Southeast ridge locks in and temperatures soar. Expect consistent sunshine across all four days with highs climbing into the upper 80s and low 90s.
The Upstate sees highs ranging from 90-92 degrees during this stretch. Thursday and Saturday break records, with Thursday surpassing the 88-degree record and Saturday climbing to 92 degrees to break the 89-degree record. Wednesday approaches the 91-degree record, and Friday nears the 92-degree record.
Up in the mountains, highs range from 85-87 degrees. Wednesday and Thursday approach records, while Friday and Saturday stay south of theirs.
Wind stays gusty throughout—expect afternoon gusts of 20+ mph, especially Thursday and Saturday. Humidity isn’t terribly high, but the heat is still exceptional, feeling more like July rather than mid-April.
Sunday: The Cold Front Arrives
A significant upper-level trough drops southward late Sunday, shoving a cold front through the Western Carolinas. Showers develop, but don’t expect a big rain-maker. Model guidance trends drier, suggesting any moisture comes in as brief showers rather than steady rain.
Amounts look to stay around a tenth of an inch or less.
Temperatures take a tumble Sunday, with highs dropping to the low 80s in the Upstate and the low 70s in the mountains.
Monday & Tuesday: Cool Down, Still Dry
The cold front clears out Monday, but the air mass behind it remains exceptionally dry. Expect sunny skies, near-normal temperatures in the mid-70s. It’s a refreshing break from the heat of the previous week.
What You Need to Know
Heat: This is exceptional warmth for mid-April with record-breaking temperatures on the way. Stay hydrated during outdoor activities, check on neighbors and family members who may struggle with heat, and give pets plenty of water and shade…