A contrasting weather pattern is unfolding across the United States as Easter approaches. Cooler air that moved into the western United States on Monday will continue to build this week, while warmer temperatures expand eastward.

Western States Cool Down

Following recent record-breaking heat, the Western states will experience a cooldown. Showers are expected to spread across the region, with potential for mountain snow from the Northwest to Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah. High temperatures are forecast to remain in the 70s throughout the week, a significant drop from recent highs in the 80s.

Eastern US Sees Warming Trend

The East Coast is experiencing a warming trend, with showers and pockets of steady rain expected. While not every day will be rainy, much of the central and southern Atlantic coast will remain relatively dry. Temperatures in New York City have already seen three consecutive days in the 70s and lower 80s.

Temperature Fluctuations in the Northeast

A “backdoor cool front” will bring a sharp temperature drop on Thursday in the New York City area, a common springtime occurrence. Over the past few weeks, temperatures have fluctuated widely, ranging from the upper 30s to the mid-70s.

Central US Braces for Rain & Storms

Multiple rounds of showers and storms are anticipated across the central U.S. over the next few days. A band of heavy downpours and thunderstorms is forecast to move from the Appalachians to the Atlantic coast on Easter Sunday.

Easter Weekend Pattern Flip

The current weather pattern is expected to briefly flip over the Easter weekend, with cooler air advancing eastward. Pittsburgh, which experienced highs in the 80s from Thursday through Saturday, may struggle to reach 50 degrees on Easter Sunday. Phoenix is forecast to reach the 90s again this weekend, potentially nearing a record high of 98 degrees.

Regional Forecasts

Seattle will see highs in the 50s for much of the week, trending upward into the 60s this weekend. AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Meteorologist Paul Pastelok notes that the interior Southeast, mid-Atlantic, and central Gulf Coast states are likely to experience temperatures well above average for the first half of April.

Pastelok explained the warmth is due to an “atmospheric traffic jam” from the Atlantic to the Gulf Coast, but a large storm forming over central and eastern Canada around April 15th will likely bring cooler air.

While the wetter pattern may disrupt outdoor plans and lead to localized flooding, the rain and mountain snow will help alleviate spring wildfire concerns.