Short Range Forecast Discussion NWS Weather Prediction Center College Park MD 400 PM EDT Sun Sep 24 2017 Valid 00Z Mon Sep 25 2017 - 00Z Wed Sep 27 2017 ...Colder temperatures forecast for the western U.S. and warmer for the eastern states... With a deep upper-level trough in place over the western states, below average temperatures are forecast to persist through midweek for much of this region. A few areas with lingering snow across the Intermountain West will dissipate this evening. Mostly dry conditions are expected for the valleys and lower terrain. The eastern U.S. will continue to have warmer temperatures as the ridge remains anchored in the coming days. Some locations could even achieve record high temperatures with readings breaking the 90-degree mark. A strong, slow moving cold front with multiple waves of low pressure developing along it will span from the Upper Great Lakes to the Southern Rockies. Widespread showers and a few thunderstorms will develop along this frontal boundary - it may be heavy at times which would increase the risk for excessive rainfall and possible flash flooding. Hurricane Maria is forecast to track near parts of the East Coast for the middle of next week. Current indications suggest this storm may come within 200 miles of North Carolina's Outer Banks before heading out to sea. In the meantime, expect rough surf and high seas for the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic coasts. The National Hurricane Center has the latest information and forecast track regarding this hurricane. Campbell/Hamrick Graphics available at www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/basicwx/basicwx_ndfd.php