The record for high temperature on this date in Asheville (October 2nd) is 87 degrees set back 120 years ago in 1897. Today, just like yesterday, that record could fall. Tomorrow the record high temperature is 88 degrees set back in 1954, and that record could likely fall as well with many models indicating that 90 degrees could be possible. Below you can see the most recent European model run and it shows the next several days of temperatures. After we get through the next two days, it appears that Fall will finally arrive!
Not One But Two Cold Fronts Are On The Way
These nasty upper 80’s and 90’s are on their way out for WNC, and two cold fronts will push through the area with the second bringing another chance for rainfall. The first frontal passage will occur Friday afternoon, and a few pop-up showers could occur, but I am not expecting anything significant. The second front though that will move though Tuesday at some point in time does have rain making potential. The European model only shows around .3” of rainfall being possible, while the GFS indicates a more potent rainmaker, and shows well over .5” of precipitation possible. This does appear to be an upper level low, and that strong energy will make this storm somewhat difficult to predict, so expect this forecast to change some. We could be talking about severe storms with this frontal passage on Tuesday as well, so stay tuned for more information regarding that.
Fall Color Update
Some of the highest elevations are beginning to reach peak, and they are a couple of days behind. I expect that trend to somewhat continue as the color traverses down in elevation, but if this cold pans out that will accelerate the process. The rainfall that most received over the past few days will be very beneficial to lower elevation leaf retention, and leaves should hold on to the trees a bit longer, allowing color to become somewhat vibrant. Be sure to share your pictures with AshevilleWX and also share them with RomanticAsheville.com on Instagram using the hashtag #RAlivefallcolor.