Some strange weather into September

September 1st marks the start of meteorological fall and what an introduction to the season. Kansas and many surrounding areas are feeling exceptionally cool compared to average. August proved to be a wet month for much of the state and September may be picking up with that theme as well.

I did want to give a quick update on La Nina and El Nino status. If you've read the blog before, you know we discuss it from time to time because it influences the longer-term temperature and rainfall patterns. Right now, we are not in either one (neutral), but when you look at the maps below, the area monitored is shows small amounts of colder water creeping in. Colder water over an extended period is classified as "La Nina", while warmer is "El Nino". It would appear unlikely that a La Nina is going to show up - we will likely remain "neutral" into winter and spring of 2026.

A look at October:

November:

January:

It's something we'll have to weigh when considering the winter forecast. More about that in a later post. 

September preview:

There's not much summer left in the weeks ahead. I suspect there's a warmer stretch of weather coming up in mid-late September, but not really anything out of the ordinary (most likely more 80s than anything else).

September Temperatures (compared to average):

September Rainfall (compared to average):

I know September is a busy time for farmers to get next year's wheat crop planted. It may be tricky trying to get into the field as the rain may be off and on from week to week. However, there is a chance in mid-late September that some drier days will return. 

Here's the 2nd week of September:

And the 3rd week:

Thanks for reading! Hope to see some of you at the state fair.