MIDDLESBORO - Local department stores are advertising 40 and 50 percent sales on sun dresses, known at this time of year as Easter dresses; likely with hopes of moving that merchandise in light of the cold front that is scheduled to sweep the area over the weekend.

Just when the redbuds and dogwoods are in full bloom, the usual early April “cold spell” creeps in, prompting outdoor enthusiasts to go back to those jackets that they shed too soon.

Many call these short bursts of cold in the spring “Dogwood Winter” or “Blackberry Winter”, as the period of cold weather coincides with the blooming of dogwood trees or blackberries. It's referred to as if it is a little mini-season, sort of the way brunch is an in-between meal.

Unfortunately, the unseasonably cold April air is scheduled for this weekend. A freeze watch has been issued for Friday night through Sunday morning. Morning temperatures are expected to be in the lower to middle twenties. Some are even calling for snow flurries. Not only will these temperatures harm any outdoor vegetation that has arrived early, in celebration of the last couple of weeks of warmth; but the temperatures will likely force Easter Sunday celebrations indoors.

So grab a parka, take away the sandals and put tights on your daughters, or hide the Easter eggs behind the couch - because according to forecasters, we're in for a cold Easter Sunday.