Severe Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain Possible Across the Central U.S.; Additional Flash Flooding Potential in the Mid-Atlantic

Strong thunderstorms are forecast across parts of the Central Plains and Midwest today with damaging wind gusts, large hail, and heavy rainfall the primary threats. Heavy rain and scattered flash flooding is also possible across the Carolinas into Virginia. Elevated to critical fire weather concerns in the Four Corners region as Extreme Heat Warnings remain in effect across the Desert Southwest. Read More >

September featured pretty widespread warmer than average temperatures and below average rainfall. Few records were broken this month, though a record high low temperature was set at Brainerd and a couple daily rainfall records were set. The warm and dry conditions have resulted in expanded drought conditions, with pockets of moderate to extreme drought across portions of northwest Wisconsin along the South Shore, inching into Carlton and Pine counties. Abnormally dry conditions have spread into parts of northeast Minnesota as well. Many rivers and streams are running below normal across northwest Wisconsin.

Above normal temperatures and below normal precipitation are likely to persist across the region through October, as is forecasted by the Climate Prediction Center. Chances are equal for above or below normal temperatures and precipitation through December. Areas that are currently experiencing drought will likely see conditions persist for the foreseeable future.