StormTracker8: Dreary Days ahead; Clearing in time for the Holiday

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) – Central Virginia had increasing clouds today and rain chances will begin late tonight. Lows will be in the upper 40s.

Rain chances will last through Thursday, with the best rain chances looking to be Wednesday night.

Rainfall totals could be up to 2 inches across central Virginia, with isolated locations receiving 2-3 inches. We are behind our normal rain for the month and suffering drought conditions across the state, so this rainfall will be very beneficial.

We will be seeing well below normal highs for this time of year. Tuesday and Wednesday highs will be in the mid to upper 50s, and when the rain breaks, cloudy skies will dominate. Thursday, rain will wrap in the early afternoon, and highs will climb to the low 60s.

Friday is Halloween, and the forecast looks great! Skies will be mostly clear, but highs will still be on the cooler side, in the low 60s. Jackets will definitely be needed for trick or treating plans.

Next weekend will be nice, but don't forget the time change on Saturday night! 5:30 sunsets begin on Sunday!

TRACKING THE TROPICS: Hurricane Melissa is a category 5 hurricane with winds of 175mph and is still forecast to devastate the Caribbean over the coming days. Hurricane watches and warning are in place for many islands. Jamaica specifically is forecast to take a direct hit, with major hurricane force winds and feet of rainfall through the middle of the week.