Issued: 8am on Thursday, February 27th 2025
Technical Forecast Discussion
Short-term Forecast (Thursday 02/27/2025 through Saturday 03/01/2025):
On Thursday, a mid-level shortwave trough is expected to traverse the Great Lakes region, inducing a surface low pressure system to the northeast. This setup will tighten the pressure gradient over southeastern Ohio, leading to breezy conditions. A weak high-pressure ridge moving southward will initially provide some stability; however, the associated low-level jet will enhance moisture transport, resulting in potential morning showers. As the day progresses, cold air advection will promote cooler temperatures and increased cloud cover. By Friday, the region will be under the influence of a westerly flow aloft, maintaining a mix of sun and clouds with continued breeziness in the afternoon. Saturday anticipates the approach of another mid-level disturbance from the central Plains, bringing a thick cloud cover and milder temperatures due to southerly flow ahead of the system.
Long-term Forecast (Sunday 03/02/2025 through Wednesday 03/05/2025):
Sunday will see the departure of the mid-level disturbance, allowing a ridge of high pressure to build in from the west. This will result in partly to mostly sunny skies but with colder temperatures due to lingering cold air advection. On Monday, the high-pressure system shifts eastward, and return flow will introduce milder air into the region under partly sunny conditions. Tuesday is expected to bring increased moisture as a low-pressure system develops over the central U.S., leading to widespread rain and milder temperatures. By Wednesday, the system moves northeastward, with residual moisture causing mostly cloudy skies and intermittent showers, while a slight cooling trend ensues as the associated cold front passes through.
