October’s Weather Flip: From 80° to Jacket Weather in 24 Hours

Rowan County is in the middle of a quick weather turnaround today. Temperatures are still warm this morning, with readings in the low 70s and plenty of humidity, but change is on the way. A cold front is sliding toward the region, and by this time tomorrow, it will feel much more like fall.

The Front on the Move

As of late Wednesday morning, the cold front remains northwest of Rowan County, moving steadily southeast. A few light showers or sprinkles are possible through midday, but the main story is the shift in air mass that follows. Once the front clears the area later today, winds will turn to the north and humidity will begin dropping quickly.

Temperatures will hold in the upper 70s to near 80° this afternoon, but by tonight, cooler air will begin filtering in. Expect lows near 52°, with breezy north winds gusting up to 20 mph as the cooler air settles across the region.

A Fast Change Ahead

By Thursday morning, you’ll notice the difference. Drier air and lower humidity will make it feel crisp, and highs will only reach the upper 60s to around 70°. This is a classic October “weather flip” — warm and muggy one day, then jacket weather less than 24 hours later.

What Causes the Flip

Cold fronts this time of year can bring big changes in a short amount of time. Strong temperature contrasts between the Midwest and the Southeast allow cool, dry air to surge southward. Once the front passes, skies clear quickly, and with low humidity, temperatures can drop sharply overnight.

Looking Ahead

Cooler, fall-like conditions will last through the weekend, with highs in the upper 60s and lows in the 40s. By early next week, a gradual warming trend will return, but the muggy, summerlike air is gone for now.

Quick Key

• Today: Front approaching, warm and humid (high near 81°)

• Tonight: Front passes, turning cooler (low near 52°)

• Thursday: Sunny, breezy, and much cooler (high near 68°)

• Weekend: Sunny and comfortable

Bottom Line

The cold front hasn’t quite arrived yet, but the change it brings will be felt soon. By tonight, Rowan County will be stepping firmly into fall — and this time, it’s here to stay.