As the final full week of summer unfolds, much of the continental United States is basking in above-average warmth, with only scattered interruptions from slow-moving storm systems. While most regions remain dry and sunny, the weather map is beginning to show signs of change.

In the Austin and San Antonio corridor, temperatures continue to run 2–3 degrees above seasonal norms. Under partly cloudy skies, highs range from the mid-80s in the Hill Country to the lower and mid-90s elsewhere. KNCT Meteorologist Bill Hecke reports a tranquil start to Tuesday, with clear skies and morning temperatures in the 60s and 70s. A light southerly breeze accompanies the sunshine, but the afternoon heat could spark a stray shower or thunderstorm. Winds may briefly pick up during these isolated events, but overall conditions remain calm.

While today and Wednesday carry only a slight chance of storms, the forecast shifts later in the week. Rain chances increase and are expected to persist off and on through the weekend, bringing a gradual return to near-normal temperatures. This pattern will be especially noticeable in areas that have been running hot, like Central Texas, where the mercury has consistently hovered above September averages.

National Outlook: Wet Weather Targets the Coasts and Plains

According to the National Weather Service, a slow-moving coastal low is bringing heavy rain potential to the Mid-Atlantic. Moderate to heavy rainfall is already spreading inland across North Carolina and Virginia, with totals of 2–5 inches possible through Wednesday. These rains are a welcome sight for regions recently classified as abnormally dry.

Meanwhile, the central to northern Plains brace for rounds of thunderstorms today into Thursday. A mid- to upper-level system emerging from the Rockies is expected to consolidate over the north-central U.S., delivering widespread showers and much-needed relief to drought-stricken areas like western Nebraska and southern South Dakota.

Farther west, Tropical Storm Mario is steering moisture into Southern California, Arizona, and New Mexico. Though the storm itself is weakening, its remnants may bring showers to coastal California and offshore islands by Wednesday, with precipitation spreading northward on Thursday.

Across the Lower 48, above-average temperatures dominate, especially in regions untouched by rain. However, where precipitation is expected, such as the Mid-Atlantic and northern Plains, temperatures will dip below seasonal norms. This contrast underscores the increasingly amplified upper-level flow shaping the national weather pattern.

For hourly updates and on-demand forecasts, tune in to KNCT or visit myKNCT.com. As summer winds down, the weather story is far from over, so keep your eyes on the skies and your ears on the forecast.