Easter Weekend Begins with Record Heat and Rain Threatens the East
Temperature surge on Saturday
Heat will push into the Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, and parts of the Northeast. Washington, D.C., could reach near 87°F, and pockets may climb into the 80s.
Forecasters say nearly 270 million Americans will see above-average temperatures. The early warmth will increase instability ahead of storms.
Severe weather risk in the Ohio Valley
Storms will move east from the St. Louis area Saturday morning. They may bring heavy downpours, damaging winds, and a limited tornado threat.
Areas of Ohio and parts of Indiana face the greatest threats. Southern Kentucky and western New York are also vulnerable.
NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center places parts of Ohio, including Cleveland and Columbus, at a Level 2 of 5 risk. Thunderstorms are expected to fire up Saturday afternoon into the evening.
Sunday outlook for the East Coast
A cold front will sweep east on Sunday, producing rain from the Southeast into New England. Showers and downpours should begin Sunday morning from Georgia to upstate New York.
By afternoon, rain will be moving into major I-95 cities from Raleigh to Boston. Outdoor Easter plans could face patchy to widespread wet weather.
Impacts on travel and events
Parades, egg hunts, and other outdoor gatherings may be disrupted. Road conditions and flight schedules could see delays across the Northeast.
Most of the heavier rain is expected to ease Sunday evening and overnight into Monday. Filmogaz.com advises monitoring local forecasts before travel.
Short-term forecast after the front
Temperatures will fall back to near seasonal levels on Monday. Expect readings in the 40s and 50s across the Northeast.
Cooler conditions should persist through the middle of next week.
- Saturday warmth: 80s possible in parts of Mid-Atlantic and Southeast.
- Saturday threats: downpours, damaging winds, isolated tornadoes in Ohio/Indiana.
- Sunday rain: morning showers from Georgia to upstate New York; afternoon rain along I-95.
- Risk note: Level 2 of 5 severe threat for portions of Ohio (NOAA SPC).
