Desperately Needed Rain on the Way for Tri-State Area
After weeks of missed rain chances, extreme fire danger, and an exploding drought, desperately needed rain is on the way. And this time, we expect more than just a trace in the tri-state area.
Exceptionally Dry Fall
It has been an exceptionally dry fall. Season-to-date, Central Park is running nearly 9 inches below normal. And this is a trend seen across the region; every major reporting site in the tri-state is down over half a foot at least.
Expanding Drought Conditions
These deficits have led to expanding drought conditions, with most of the area now under a severe drought. Our area has not seen drought conditions this bad since 2002.
Rain Relief in Sight
This week’s rain won’t be the huge drought-buster that we need, but it will certainly go a long way to help alleviate some of the strain we are under. Expect a steady rain Thursday morning, with scattered light rain showers Thursday and again late Friday.
Most locations should get a half an inch to an inch of rain. Those north of the city, especially in Fairfield County and the Hudson Valley, could see more than that – up to 2 inches.
Cold Front Brings Rain and Potential Snow
Thursday morning’s steady rain will happen along a cold front. Behind the front, cold air takes over — but not freezing cold. In and around the Metro New York City area, temperatures will remain above 32 degrees, so anything that falls here will be rain.
In some parts of upstate New York, though, temperatures will hit freezing and this storm system could deliver some snow.
Light Snow Possible in Some Areas
Very light snow could fall in parts of the Catskills, Poconos and northwestern New Jersey. This will not bring blockbuster snow to the Hudson Valley, but anywhere from flurries to an inch is not out of the question.
Looking Ahead
Another weather-maker is slated to move through next Monday, hopefully bringing us another chance for rain. Like this week’s storm, it may not erase our rain deficit or the drought, but it would be nice to finally see a change in the same old (dry) pattern.
Conclusion
This week’s rain is a welcome relief after weeks of dry and hot weather. While it may not be enough to fully alleviate the drought, it will certainly help to alleviate some of the strain on the region. Let’s hope that next week’s weather system brings us even more rain and helps to bring an end to the drought.
FAQs
Q: How much rain can I expect this week?
A: Most locations should get a half an inch to an inch of rain, with those north of the city potentially seeing up to 2 inches.
Q: Will the rain be heavy and thunderstorm-like?
A: No, the rain is expected to be steady and light, with scattered showers Thursday and late Friday.
Q: Will the storm system bring snow to the tri-state area?
A: Yes, temperatures will hit freezing in some parts of upstate New York, bringing the possibility of light snow to the Catskills, Poconos, and northwestern New Jersey.
Q: Is the drought over?
A: No, the drought is not over. While this week’s rain will help to alleviate some of the strain, it will likely take several more weeks of above-average rainfall to fully alleviate the drought.
