Enjoy the sunshine while it lasts; big changes coming Friday

(Heartland News) - After a beautiful Monday afternoon, the pleasant pattern continues through midweek, but don’t get too comfortable — a dramatic shift in weather arrives by week’s end.

Tonight through Tuesday: Clear skies and seasonable temperatures will set the stage for another gorgeous day. Lows tonight will dip into the upper 30s and lower 40s, but Tuesday will bounce back nicely with sunny skies and highs climbing into the lower 70s. This is prime time for outdoor plans — take advantage of it.

Wednesday: The pattern starts to break down. Sunny skies early in the day will give way to increasing clouds by afternoon. A few showers and thunderstorms will develop, mainly east of the Mississippi River. While most of the region stays dry, those who do see rain should be aware that a few storms could produce small hail. Highs will still reach the upper 60s and lower 70s, but the atmosphere will feel noticeably different.

The big change Friday: Much cooler air moves in for the end of the week. Highs on Friday will struggle to reach the upper 40s and lower 50s — a dramatic drop from the 70s earlier in the week. Bundle up if you have outdoor plans or a Friday commute.