ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A stalled front and approaching storm systems are expected to bring increasing clouds, periods of heavy rain and strong winds to western North Carolina heading into the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Cloud cover is forecast to build Thursday night, with light rain possible near the mountains by early Friday. Rain chances increase Friday afternoon and evening as low-pressure systems move north through the Mississippi Valley, with heavy rainfall likely across the southern Appalachians late Friday into Saturday.

Forecasters warn that gusty winds will develop early Saturday at higher elevations and strengthen and spread into lower elevations by Sunday. Saturated soils from heavy rain could lead to falling tree limbs or uprooted trees, raising the possibility of isolated power outages.

Temperatures Thursday will remain slightly cooler but still above normal, with highs near 62 in the Asheville area. A few isolated showers are possible overnight, with lows around 50.

Rain is likely Friday, mainly after midafternoon, with patchy fog possible in the morning. Highs are expected near 65. Rain continues Friday night into Saturday, when wind gusts could reach 20 mph or higher.

Behind a cold front, conditions turn windy and noticeably cooler Sunday, with mostly sunny skies and highs near 44. Overnight lows could drop into the low 20s by Sunday night.

The National Weather Service advises residents to monitor forecasts and be prepared for changing conditions through the weekend.