Print edition: 
All too often, Mother Nature is in a foul mood in the Wichita area over Memorial Day weekend.
This year may prove to be an exception, forecasters say.
"It definitely is going to feel more like summer," said Kevin Darmofal, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.
Partly cloudy skies and highs in the mid- to upper 80s are in the forecast throughout the weekend.
"You can never rule out an isolated storm" this time of year, Darmofal said.
Indeed, there's a slight chance of rain tonight in the metropolitan area. But after that, the best chances for storms are north of the Wichita area, he said.
After the storms earlier this week, the weather pattern is showing signs of calming down for the next several days. Forecasters say computer models indicate summer-like patterns could be settling into place for a while.
For people planning a trip to the lake or other outdoor activities, Darmofal said, "It looks like the weather's going to cooperate."
Revelers would still be wise to pay attention to the weather and know where they can go for shelter. But considering how stormy past Memorial Day weekends have been, this year's forecast is remarkably tranquil.
That alone could set the stage for a healthy dose of holiday spirit.
