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Spring is returning, as a general warming trend is expected across a large swath of the country heading into the weekend.
CALIFORNIA SKI RESORTS GET 3 FEET OF SNOW FROM ‘LATE-SEASON’ STORM
Warm temperatures have shifted eastward, so areas in the 40s and 50s at the start of this week are ending in the 70s and 80s.
Friday forecast high temperatures
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By Saturday, nearly 60% of the country will experience above-average temperatures.
However, that heat will fuel some severe weather in the central Great Plains Friday afternoon and evening.
Friday severe storm threat
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These storms will pose a risk for hail, tornadoes and strong damaging wind gusts.
Very large hail in excess of 2 inches is likely from western Texas to southwestern Kansas.
Winter weather alerts
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This powerful storm system does have cold air behind it and will turn into a winter storm for the northern Plains.
Winter storm watches have been issued and up to a foot of snow is possible in the Dakotas and Montana.
Friday fire weather outlook
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Finally, extremely dry conditions and high winds continue to plague the Southwest.
Wind gusts ranging from 40-60 mph are forecast from Arizona to New Mexico and north into Colorado.
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This plus the low humidity has caused an extreme wildfire outlook for the weekend.