Issued: 8pm on Sunday, April 6th 2025
Technical Forecast Discussion
Short-term Forecast (Sunday 04/06/2025 through Tuesday 04/08/2025):
As of Sunday evening, Athens is under the influence of a mid-latitude cyclone centered over the Great Lakes region. This system has been responsible for the recent precipitation and the current Flood Warning in effect until 8:00 PM EDT. The associated cold front has moved through the area, ushering in cooler temperatures and overcast conditions. On Monday, the region will experience a brief respite as a transient ridge of high pressure builds in from the west. This will result in partly sunny skies and a temporary warming trend during the day. However, clear skies overnight will facilitate radiational cooling, leading to a significant drop in temperatures by Tuesday morning. By Tuesday, another upper-level trough is forecasted to approach from the northwest, bringing increased cloud cover and reinforcing the cooler air mass. This pattern will maintain below-average temperatures for early April, with brisk northwesterly winds adding to the chill.
Long-term Forecast (Wednesday 04/09/2025 through Saturday 04/12/2025):
Midweek, a shortwave ridge is expected to provide a brief period of partial sunshine and slightly warmer temperatures. However, this will be short-lived as another frontal system approaches from the west by late Wednesday into Thursday. This system is anticipated to bring increased cloudiness and a chance of showers, with the potential for more widespread precipitation on Thursday. In the wake of this system, a broad upper-level trough will dominate the eastern United States, leading to a cooler and unsettled pattern for the latter part of the week. Friday is likely to be characterized by considerable cloud cover and the possibility of lingering showers, particularly in the morning hours. Temperatures will remain below seasonal averages, with a damp and chilly feel. By Saturday, the trough begins to lift northeastward, allowing for a gradual improvement in conditions. Partial sunshine is expected to return, though temperatures will remain on the cooler side. Overall, the extended forecast suggests a pattern of transient ridging and troughing, leading to fluctuating temperatures and periodic chances for precipitation. Residents are advised to stay updated with the latest forecasts and exercise caution, particularly concerning the current Flood Warning and any subsequent advisories issued during this period.
