CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Secure loose items now, because wind gusts are already picking up across the Charlotte area! Prepare for 20 - 30 mph winds with gusts near 50 mph. It's important to note that winds are highest AFTER the rain and storms move through the region.
The robust low-pressure system has an enormous wind field that is similar to the remnants of a tropical storm without all the moisture. There is a High Wind Warning in place for the mountains and northern foothills with a Wind Advisory across the southern foothills, piedmont and sandhills.
Timing:
As the rain moves out and the sunshine returns, conditions will remain dry for the rest of the day with sunshine and warm temperatures near 80. However, the winds actually get stronger.
The warming of the day and the winds flowing over the mountains will cause a deep mixing layer in the atmosphere, resulting in stronger winds above our heads mixing down to the surface and higher gusts as the day goes on. So, expect the highest gusts from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Impacts:
These types of winds will bring down some branches and trees, which then could result in scattered power outages.
Also, items like tents, trampolines, and other temporary structures must be secured very well or taken down to avoid being blown away. Also, due to the dry air behind the front combined with the wind, the fire danger will be very high heading into Saturday afternoon and early Sunday.
Driving high-profile vehicles will be difficult and requires two heads on the wheel at all times.
It's a good idea to prepare for possible power outages by charging all your devices, having a flashlight, and getting items ready for the loss of power. Saturday is certainly a day to stay Weather Aware!