Record Heat Before Strong Storms Arrive

Near-record temperatures early in the week give way to a significant cool-down and severe weather threat for the second half of the week.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Western Carolinas are about to experience a wild weather roller coaster, with near record highs early in the week followed by a strong cold front ushering in a storm threat prompting a First Alert Weather Day Thursday and a much cooler pattern.

Why it matters

The rapid temperature swings and severe weather threat could impact travel, outdoor activities, and power outages, making it important for residents to stay informed and prepared.

The details

Temperatures are forecast to climb into the low-to-mid 80s on Tuesday and Wednesday, potentially tying or breaking records in Greenville and Asheville. However, a strong cold front is expected to move in late Wednesday night, bringing widespread rain, isolated thunderstorms, and a low-end severe weather threat, including the possibility of damaging straight-line winds. In the mountains, the rain could mix with or briefly turn to snow, potentially making roads slick.

  • On Monday, temperatures will climb into the mid-to-upper 70s across the Upstate and low-to-mid 70s in the mountains.
  • On Tuesday, temperatures are forecast to reach a high of 82°F in Greenville, just 2 degrees off the current record of 84°F, and 80°F in Asheville, which would break the old record of 76°F.
  • On Wednesday, temperatures are expected to tie the record of 84°F in Greenville and set a new record of 80°F in Asheville, surpassing the current record of 79°F.
  • On Thursday, the strong cold front is expected to move in late Wednesday night and through Thursday morning, bringing widespread rain, isolated thunderstorms, and a low-end severe weather threat.
  • On Friday, the cold front is expected to clear out, and the sunshine will return and stay through the weekend.

The players

Greenville

A city in South Carolina that is expected to experience near-record high temperatures early in the week, followed by a significant cool-down and severe weather threat.

Asheville

A city in North Carolina that is expected to experience record high temperatures early in the week, followed by a significant cool-down and severe weather threat.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.