Halloween Night’s Scary Forecast

3PM October 31

Severe weather is not something I normally report on, but with many activities planned for this evening, I thought it might be a good idea to be sure everyone has some idea what the weather will be for the trick or treaters.

A strong cold front is approaching the area this afternoon, and out ahead of it into the evening will bring cloudy skies, gusty southerly winds, and occasional showers, but nothing severe.

There’s good model consensus that the cold front will enter the western areas along the Blue Ridge around 8PM and make it to the bay before 11PM. When the front crosses, severe storms are likely with very gusty winds, dangerous lightning, and heavy rain. Isolated tornadoes are a strong possibility, but even without tornadoes, the straight-line winds are expected to be strong enough for some damage.

In short, it’s safe to put on your best costume and go trick or treating, but the earlier the better. By 9 or 10 o’clock, the front will bring very fast-changing conditions with severe weather likely. Behind the front will be gusty and much colder.

Be safe!