By Reginald Stanley. Posted March 21, 2017, 6:18 PM.

An extended period of above-average heat and dryness, that has lasted since near the beginning of the month, is finally ending this week as low pressure moves in and brings rain with it.

March 2017 has average several degrees warmer than normal thus far across the region. With the exception of a weak storm at the beginning of the month, it was also a dry month with abnormal heat lasting over two consecutive weeks. A stubborn high pressure ridge was to blame. Weather began cooling down on Monday, with morning fog and clouds entering the region as well.

Rain is expected to arrive tonight and continue throughout Wednesday, departing the region by Thursday morning. Storm totals are forecast to reach at least 3/4 of an inch in the valleys. Snow levels are predicted to start out at around 7,000 feet above sea level, dropping to 5,000 feet by Wednesday night. Another storm is predicted to arrive in the region on Saturday.