Indian Summer

Indian Summer has arrived right on schedule. Temperatures climbed into the middle 70s yesterday and are poised to reach the middle 80s today. This will probably be a few degrees short of the record highs in most locations, but with dewpoint temperatures increasing into the 60s it will definitely feel much more like July or August than early October. However, with the warmer temperatures comes a threat for thunderstorms, some of which could be severe. A cold front will drop south towards the region this afternoon, and storms should develop ahead of it. The best chances for severe thunderstorms today will be between 3 and 9 p.m., with the biggest threats being large hail and gusty winds. There may be a better chance for severe storms on Tuesday. The front is expected to get hung up across the area tonight, and again sink southward tomorrow. If the conditions come together just right, supercell thunderstorms will be possible tomorrow afternoon and evening, creating an enhanced threat for severe weather, including isolated tornadoes. October is certainly not the most favorable month for severe weather in Wisconsin, but it has been known to happen. After the front finally moves south, temperatures will cool slightly, but are expected to remain above normal through the weekend.