Why Rowan County Is So Cool Today — And Why It Won't Last

If you stepped outside this morning, you probably noticed something that doesn't feel very July-like.

Instead of temperatures climbing into the 90s, Rowan County will spend much of today in the lower to middle 70s. That's around 15 to 20 degrees cooler than what we've experienced recently and well below what's typical for the middle of July.

So, what's behind the dramatic change?

Clouds Are Doing Most of the Work

The biggest reason for today's cooler temperatures is the thick blanket of clouds covering the region. Normally, July sunshine quickly heats the ground, allowing afternoon temperatures to soar into the 90s.

Today, those clouds are acting like a giant sunshade, blocking much of the incoming solar energy before it can warm the surface.

Rain Helps Keep Temperatures Down

Frequent showers and thunderstorms are also preventing temperatures from rising.

Rain-cooled air spreads outward from thunderstorms, while evaporation helps cool the air even further. With showers expected through much of the day, Rowan County simply won't have enough time to warm up very much.

A Northeast Wind Makes a Difference

Winds blowing in from the northeast are bringing in slightly cooler and more stable air. While this isn't a blast of cool autumn air, it adds another piece to the puzzle by reinforcing today's cooler conditions.

Don't Get Used to It

If you're enjoying today's break from the heat, take advantage of it—it won't last long.

The rain begins to move away tonight, and Tuesday will feature a mix of clouds and sunshine with highs rebounding into the lower 80s.

By Wednesday, sunshine returns in full force, pushing temperatures back to around 90 degrees.

Then the real summer heat returns:

• Wednesday: Near 90°
• Thursday: Around 95°
• Friday: Mid-90s

Heat index values will likely climb back above 100 degrees later this week, making it feel much more like a typical July across Rowan County.

One More Thing to Watch Today

While today's cooler weather is certainly welcome, don't let it fool you into thinking today is a quiet weather day.

Periods of heavy rain could produce localized flooding, especially in low-lying and poor drainage areas. If you encounter water covering a roadway, remember the safest choice is to Turn Around, Don't Drown.

Enjoy today's refreshing break while it lasts. Before the week is over, Rowan County will once again be talking about summer heat instead of unusually cool temperatures.