Hot and Dry September Continues in the Chicago Area
The Chicago area’s hot and dry September shows no signs of letting up, with Sunday and Monday marking two 90-degree days in a row. The scorching weather has been a regular feature of the month, with temperatures consistently soaring above average.
Record-Breaking Heat
The chart below shows the number of days above 80 and 90 degrees in the Chicago area. As you can see, we’re significantly above normal for both categories.
[Image: DAYS ABOVE 80]
[Image: DAYS ABOVE 90]
As Tom Skilling explains, the heatwave is just one aspect of the dry conditions plaguing the region. In fact, our September is on track to be the second driest on record.
[Image: DRIEST-MONTHS]
Drought Conditions
Unfortunately, the dry spell hasn’t gone unnoticed, and parts of Chicagoland are currently experiencing a Moderate level of drought. Here’s a snapshot of the current drought monitor.
[Image: DROUGHT-MONITOR-1]
When Can We Expect Rain?
As the weather forecast reveals, our next chance of rain won’t come until the Fall Equinox on Sunday, and even then, it’s not looking like a widespread event. In fact, only 20% of the area is expected to receive any precipitation at all, leaving the rest of the region still struggling with dry conditions.
Conclusion
As we approach the end of September, it’s clear that this hot and dry spell won’t be going away anytime soon. If you’re looking for more information on the latest weather forecast and drought conditions, be sure to check out the WGN Weather Center for all the latest updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s causing the heatwave in Chicago?
A: A persistent high-pressure system has been dominating the region, bringing hot air from the west.
Q: Is it normal for Chicago to have a dry September?
A: No, September is typically a relatively wet month in Chicago, but this year’s dry conditions are well above average.
Q: What can I do to conserve water during this drought?
A: Try to reduce your water usage by taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and watering your lawn and plants wisely.
Q: How will the drought affect the fall foliage?
A: Dry conditions can impact the development of fall colors, making them less vibrant and extensive than usual.
