Sunshine returns before a gradual warm-up next week

Sunshine returns, but chilly air hangs on

After several gray and gloomy days, we finally caught a break in the clouds today. The morning started off cold, with temperatures in the upper 20s and low 30s, but sunshine helped many of us warm into the upper 30s and 40s this afternoon. A few locations across southern Kentucky even managed to reach the low 50s. That sunshine was a welcome sight and signals a quieter stretch of weather heading into the weekend.

Clear and cold tonight into Sunday morning

Skies stay mostly clear tonight, which means temperatures will drop quickly after sunset. Lows will fall into the low 20s across much of the area, making for a chilly start to Sunday morning. With high pressure in control, no precipitation is expected overnight, and winds will remain light.

Sunday stays dry with seasonal temperatures

Sunday brings more sunshine and dry conditions across central and southern Kentucky. Despite the sunshine, colder air remains in place, keeping afternoon highs mainly in the low 40s. Temperatures will once again fall quickly Sunday evening, dropping back into the low 20s overnight as clear skies persist.

A noticeable warm-up begins Monday

The pattern starts to shift on Monday as warmer air pushes into the region. Winds turn more southerly, allowing temperatures to rebound into the mid-50s by the afternoon. This marks the beginning of a warming trend that will carry us into the middle of the week, with highs climbing into the upper 50s and low 60s.

Rain chances increase later next week

Along with the warmer temperatures, rain chances will slowly return. Isolated showers are possible Tuesday and Wednesday, though these will not be widespread. The best chance for more consistent rain looks to arrive Thursday into Friday as a more unsettled pattern develops. Even with the rain chances increasing, temperatures are expected to stay above average for early January.

ABC 36 Storm Team 36-hour forecast

Saturday night: Mostly clear and cold. Temperatures fall into the low 20s by Sunday morning with light winds.

Sunday: Mostly sunny and dry. Chilly, with highs in the low 40s across the area.

Monday night: Partly cloudy and milder. Temperatures only drop into the upper 30s to low 40s as warmer air continues to move in.