St. Lawrence County residents can expect a dramatic weather swing this week, with summer-like warmth giving way to a brisk taste of spring chill, and potentially severe weather in between, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

A southerly flow developed today, ushering in unseasonably warm air across the North Country. Afternoon temperatures are expected to soar into the 75 to 85 degree range, with frost warnings looming just 36 hours later. Winds picked up through the day, with sustained speeds of 15 to 25 mph, setting the stage for an active evening.

Forecasters are closely watching a strong cold front approaching from the west which is expected to bring gusty showers and thunderstorms late this afternoon into tonight, with the potential for severe storms, the service says. Damaging winds and brief downpours are possible, with an 80% chance of precipitation. Rainfall could range from a quarter to a half inch, with higher amounts in thunderstorms.

Temperatures will plummet overnight, dropping from the 80s to the upper 30s by early Wednesday. Winds will remain strong, shifting from the southwest to the west at 14 to 26 mph before gradually easing.

By Wednesday, the region will feel more like early spring again, with sunny skies and highs only near 52 degrees. The clear skies and calmer winds will also allow patchy frost to develop by early Thursday morning, as overnight lows dip into the low-to-mid 30s.

The end of the week brings another shift, with rain returning Thursday night and continuing into Friday, accompanied by gusty south winds and highs in the low 70s. The weekend looks unsettled, with a chance of lingering showers and below-average temperatures.