Goodbye Hot & Dry 2023, One For The Records

Little did we know at the end of 2022, that 2023 would be one of the hottest & driest years since MSY opened back in 1946.  Our usual wettest months (June-September) had very little rainfall along with double digit days above 100+(15).  An upper level blocking pattern developed with high pressure aloft capping the atmosphere resulting in limiting our daily shower coverage to near zero.  We all know, if we don't get out afternoon daily, cooling T-Storms, we're gonna flirt with 100 degrees.  I haven't seen the data for temperatures, but I'm pretty sure 2023 in is the top 3, maybe # 1?

It took the 7th wettest December to put a dent into our exceptional drought conditions.   And more rain is coming as we head into January.  Mardi Gras is still weeks away, but the parade of storms off the West Coast goes all the way back to Japan.

These storm systems will ride the southern jet stream right across the country so get ready for more heavier rainfall next mid week and into the weekend.  In the short term,

A weak cold front will push through by Monday morning with few, if any showers.  See how low the dew points are (30s & 40s) indicating limited low level moisture.  The system mid week looks stronger with next weekend's disturbance even stronger.

I mentioned the possibility of a southern snowstorm, but the lack of cold air will limit any snow to Kansas, Missouri & Illinois.  Long range, there are no signs of an Arctic outbreak coming into the Gulf South through mid January.   We'll see several rainy periods with brief cool downs & warm ups in between.

After another frosty start, we warmed to near 70 with bright sunshine.  Clouds will move in over night keeping us much warmer before the cold front arrives Monday morning.

Tonight's fireworks should have no issues as skies are clear & winds light.  40% is probably generous for tomorrow's rain coverage.  The real rain chances arrive with the two systems that follow.  So let's welcome in the New Year, hoping everyone stays safe.  Ch. 8 has agreed to have me back for another hurricane season in 2024 so this blog will continue, God willing & you keep watching.  Stay tuned!