A strong system moving northeastward through the Tennessee Valley on Wednesday will bring a day of widespread rain and periodic wind gusts across western North Carolina.

Rain will continue to spread from west to east today as a cold front begins sweeping through the region. Expect the chance for showers to ramp up through this afternoon, where those along the I-77 corridor, like Mecklenburg county, will likely see the heaviest of rain between noon and 2 p.m. The passage of this front will not only bring rain, but will also cause winds to strengthen ahead of it, where wind gusts of 20 to 40 mph will be possible across the Piedmont.

With the front to the east of the area by early Wednesday night, shower activity will taper off quickly by the evening hours, with the exception of some ongoing upslope rain,snow, and sleet showers possible in the mountains. High pressure building in quickly behind the front will allow for a blustery start to Thursday morning in the mountains as sunshine makes a comeback region wide.

Dry and seasonably cool conditions will prevail through Friday before another system moves in for the weekend. Expect wet weather for both Saturday and Sunday with additional chances fro rain into at least the first part of next work week.