ST. LOUIS – Rain so far is being kept south of the Missouri and Arkansas border as we kick off our Thursday.

It will be a sunny and very warm day ahead, with the high temperature near 80 F. During the late afternoon and evening period, there is just a slight chance for a spot shower or storm.

Don’t forget, a total lunar eclipse will take place starting late Thursday night with the big show early Friday morning. Maximum eclipse is at 1:58 a.m. Friday.

As we wake up Friday morning, wind speeds are increasing. A Wind Advisory has been issued as sustained winds are expected to be 20-30 mph, with gusts of more that 45 mph. These are strong enough to blow around trash cans and potentially lead to some power outages. It will still be warm, with highs near 80 F.

A fast moving line of intense thunderstorms, possibly severe, will move across the region Friday evening. Prime time will be between 6 p.m. and 11 p.m.

The main threat will be damaging wind gust of more than 60 mph, but hail and some tornado development can’t be ruled out.

Behind the storms, a series of cold front will pass through the area, bringing cooler and cooler air to us over the weekend. Gusty winds and highs will be in the mid to upper 60s Saturday.

The chilliest day ahead will be Sunday, with highs in the 40s to low 50s, and continued breezy conditions.

Expect sunshine, lighter winds, and highs back into the 60s for St. Patrick’s Day on Monday.