How about some triple digit temps?

Much of the Midwest will once again see the return of 90 degree temperatures as a strong ridging pattern will take shape.  Wednesday through the weekend we will see temps at or above 90 degrees, with Thursday bringing 100 degree temps! Tropical Storm Debby will cut off our moisture across the Central/Northern Plains and keep the showers/t-storms across the southeast.  Most areas in that region are looking at 2-6" of rainfall. 

The biggest worry across nearly half of the United States is the drought that has been ongoing for much of this spring and now summer season.  Looking at the map below, many areas are in a moderate to severe drought.  With another heat wave coming at the Midwest, this map will likely change for the worst once again by the end of the week. 

*This is courtesy of U.S. Drought Monitor. 


Looking at the next few weeks, computer data continues to show no significant rains for areas across much of the country. 


Eric Szos
Chief Meteorologist

Will It Ever Rain Again?

That's the question many of us are asking.......when will it rain again?  This is the 2nd driest start to the month of June with only 0.01" of rain falling at O'Hare.  The #1 rank belongs to the year 1988 where no rainfall was recorded up to this date in June.  With the next 7-10 days looking to remain dry, the concerns begin to grow for fire conditions.  Relative humidity values will drop to around 25% by the end of this week which will only increase the chances for Red Flag Warnings.

Below is a picture of the drought map across the U.S:

While the majority of the Midwest is in the abnormally dry slot, the worst is still across the southeast where an extreme drought is taking place.    With most areas across northern IL running about 2-3" below normal, it is only a matter of time before we move up on the intensity scale.  Things always have a way of balancing out, and let's hope it starts soon. 


Eric Szos
Chief Meteorologist