The summer has been unseasonably hot in many areas of the country and that trend will likely continue for the next 90 days. That’s according to the Climate Prediction Center (CPC), who issued their outlook covering September through November. Warmer than normal temperatures are forecast for all of the lower 48 states, with the highest likelihood in the Northeast and Southwest.
Increased chances for above-normal temperatures exist nationwide during September through November. https://t.co/zbSpjw4RH9 pic.twitter.com/RsNDfEBi5s
— NWSCPC (@NWSCPC) August 20, 2020
In the precipitation outlook, wetter than normal weather is expected in the Northwest and Southeast. Odds favor drier than normal conditions in the southern Plains and Four Corners. This will likely lead to an expansion of drought conditions throughout the Southwest and southern Plains.
Persistence and expansion of #drought are forecast during the next 3 months across much of California, the Great Basin, Southwest, Rockies, and High Plains. Some improvement is possible for the Pacific Northwest, Mississippi Valley, and Northeast. https://t.co/Tp4IHSdtWH pic.twitter.com/t03Jdfz3iN
— NWSCPC (@NWSCPC) August 20, 2020
Model guidance, statistical tools and the potential for an upcoming La Nina were the main factors considered for the outlook. A La Nina Watch was issued by the CPC earlier this summer. The latest advisory has a 60% chance for La Nina to develop later this autumn, but the effects may be minimal during the beginning of the outlook.