(FORT WAYNE) - Strong winds and sharply colder temperatures are moving into our area today, bringing a return to winter-like conditions that are expected to last through the weekend and into early next week.
A Wind Advisory remains in effect until 7 p.m., with gusts forecast to reach up to 45 mph. Forecasters say the winds are being driven by a large low-pressure system moving across Michigan, which is pulling colder air south into the region.
Temperatures are expected to fall into the 30s by midday under mostly cloudy skies and remain in the mid-30s through the afternoon.
Winds will gradually ease overnight, but the colder air mass will remain in place.
Saturday is expected to stay cloudy and cold, with highs only reaching the mid-30s. Another weather system moving in Saturday night could bring light snow showers, though little accumulation is anticipated.
Light snow may continue into Sunday morning, with daytime temperatures struggling to rise above the lower 30s. Mostly cloudy skies and near-freezing temperatures are expected Monday.
Conditions will moderate slightly Tuesday, with highs in the mid-30s, before a midweek system brings a brief warm-up. Temperatures could climb into the upper 40s on Wednesday before dropping back into the 30s on Thursday.
Forecasters say a more sustained warming trend may arrive late next week, with highs potentially reaching the upper 40s to lower 50s.