A few updates have been made to the February outlook from the previous forecast issued in the middle of January. The eastern third of the nation is now expected to see warmer than normal weather, along with the Southwest. Below average temperatures are forecast in the High Plains.
Why consult a groundhog when our final February outlooks are available? The best shot for below-normal temperatures during the month looks to be in the Northern Rockies and across Southeast Alaska. https://t.co/JI2DUvhln5 pic.twitter.com/8ZTlMOxe0r
— NWSCPC (@NWSCPC) February 1, 2020
Only a few minor changes were made to the precipitation forecast. The High Plains and Southeast are still expected to be wetter than normal. Below average precipitation is forecast for the Central Plains and in California. The may lead to drought conditions expanding in parts of the West.
Development of #drought is likely across parts of Oregon and Idaho during February, while removal or improvement of existing drought is forecast in parts of Texas, Florida, and Washington state. https://t.co/9pT87CSQMB pic.twitter.com/B85mvmLhOD
— NWSCPC (@NWSCPC) February 1, 2020
The CPC noted that the forecast were based on model guidance, statistical tools, global weather patterns, and local sea surface temperatures. El Nino or La Nina will not be in a factor over the coming months as Pacific Ocean water temperatures are near average.