Scattered showers and thunderstorms will increase in coverage later this afternoon and early evening as the air becomes warmer and more unstable. Highs should reach the low 80s, and may challenge the record of 82° set in 2015.

Given plentiful wind shear and the unusual amount of instability available in late December, there will be a risk for a few storms to turn strong to severe, particularly away from the immediate coast. Damaging wind gusts will be the primary concern, but a storm or two could rotate and produce a brief tornado as well. A widespread severe weather outbreak is not likely, but you’ll want to stay close to trusted and reliable sources of weather information throughout the afternoon and evening in case watches and warnings are required.