A strong area of low pressure will track through the Great Lakes region at the end of the work week, and while the system won't bring our area much precipitation, it will generate potent winds. The highest wind speeds will likely be during the midday and afternoon hours, when 50-55 mph gusts will be commonplace. Secure any loose outdoor items before the wind starts stirring up early Friday morning. 

We expect the wind to diminish Friday night, and temperatures will sink into the upper 20s. Saturday looks like an uneventful day with fairly seasonable temperatures and partial sunshine. 

The second half of the upcoming weekend will feature another fairly strong weather system moving eastward across the country. Warmer air will quickly surge northward in advance of the system; our forecast highs are in the mid 60s Sunday. While a gusty breeze will develop, it will not be as windy of a day as Friday. 

Rain showers should herald the arrival of much colder air Monday morning. Temperatures will fall sharply Monday, setting the stage for a cold St. Patrick's Day on Tuesday. There might even be some snow flurries around.