Nice weather in February? Get ready for thunderstorms

Warm weather this time of year doesn't last long without the threat of thunderstorms. This week is no exception, as severe storms are possible Thursday with the mercury surging into the 60s or even the 70s.

The Storm Prediction Center has placed us in the Slight Risk zone for Thursday. It's not out of the question that this could be upgraded to a Moderate Risk as we get closer.

The system is forecast to arrive as a squall line. High winds are the greatest threat, with the SPC discussion stating that the "risk for numerous damaging gusts is apparent." They add, "Isolated tornadoes will also be possible within the line."

Despite the storm threat, the total rainfall from the system may not be that impressive. Southeast Missouri is surrounded by our usual protective bubble.

The warm weather isn't going to last long. Temperatures will graducally drop through the weekend, with yet another below-average cold snap on the horizon for next week. Current projections from the Climate Prediction Center show a very high probability of cold weather 6-10 days from now.

On the plus side, moisture will be lacking, with below-average precipitation also on tap next week.

Except for a chance of light snow Monday, no big snowstorms are on the way. (Famous last words.)