COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) – After a warm start to the week, temperatures will drop until the middle or end of the week. The chance of rain returns on Saturday.

WEDNESDAY: We expect a mostly sunny day and afternoon as temperatures struggle to reach the upper 40s and lower 50s across the region after being in the 70s to start the week ! Northwest to west winds will also gust up to 25-30 mph at times.

WEDNESDAY EVENING: These winds will ease tonight, allowing temperatures to drop below freezing. Expect minimum temperatures between 26 and 31 degrees with clear skies and calming winds.

THU/FRI: Expect plenty of sunshine both days with highs in the 50s on Thursday and the 50s on Friday. Clouds will gradually thicken Friday afternoon, but the weather will remain dry.

WEEKEND: Rain will become likely around midday and Saturday afternoon. Rainfall amounts of at least a half-inch are expected, but we expect some areas to be closer to an inch. Sunday brings back mostly dry weather, although a shower or two could persist.