This summer (June 1 - August 31) ranks about where 2012 did, but the summer of 2011 was still MUCH hotter statewide.
Right here at the start of September and we are already watching another record: most 100° days in the month. Much of the state averages roughly 1-3 days of 100° temperatures, but this year will be an exception.
Rainfall - what rainfall, right? Since the beginning of June, areas of the state that have been wetter are across the northern sections, while central and southern Kansas remain in pretty rough shape. (compared to average):
And now the 60 day (compared to average) shows many more areas of red - representing just how dry July and August turned out:
Now on to September: this month still looks warmer than average! It's getting a kickstart with the very hot weather here at the beginning of the month, and even though it will cool down by mid-September, the 30-day period overall is warm.
Rainfall - don't expect huge amounts this month (September generally is not a wet month) with roughly 1.50-3" on average (lower amounts in western Kansas). Best chances for moisture come in the 2nd full week of the month as the riding breaks down across the Plains. It's entirely possible this will be tied to a cold front, so it may turn out to be "scattered" rather than widespread, but odds are better for moisture mid-month.
Late September looks drier to me, with possible weak high pressure returning to the area.
Thanks for reading! One extreme follows another, and with such a strong El Nino underway, there is reason to remain hopeful for change.
