Cold Front to End Charlotte's Late-Season Warmth, Bringing Gusty Winds and a Freeze Watch in the Mountains

A summer-like stretch in the Charlotte area, which included the latest 90-degree day ever recorded there, is giving way to a much cooler weekend as a cold front moves through the region.

Warm conditions are expected to hang on through Friday evening in most locations. Gusty winds accompanying the front will push feels-like temperatures lower in the mountain communities as the night goes on. A passing shower is also possible, which could affect Friday evening plans.

Saturday morning is likely to begin with cloud cover, cooler air and a chance of light rain. The clouds and showers should move out to the east around midday, and afternoon highs are forecast to reach only the low 60s. Gusty winds are expected to be a defining feature of the weekend and will make the colder air more noticeable heading into Sunday.

Sunday morning will start in the low 40s from Charlotte eastward. With the wind, feels-like temperatures will probably fall into the 30s for those heading out to breakfast or church. Forecasters advise residents to bring a coat.

Conditions in the mountains will differ somewhat. Winds there are expected to ease a little, allowing temperatures to fall below freezing. As a result, a freeze watch has been issued for Ashe, Watauga and Avery Counties from Saturday night through Sunday morning.

Sunshine on Sunday afternoon should help temperatures climb to around 60 degrees, still well below the readings seen earlier in the week.

Another chilly start is expected for the Monday morning commute. From there, temperatures are forecast to warm gradually back to levels that are normal for this time of year as the week progresses.

In summary, Friday night is expected to be breezy and warm with a passing shower chance. Saturday brings morning clouds and showers, followed by breezy and much cooler conditions. Sunday starts cold, with highs near 60.

WBTV said its free weather app can deliver alerts and the latest forecast on mobile devices, and that forecasts are also available through its streaming app on smart TVs and streaming devices.