CLIMATE REFUGEES, WE GOT 'EM....

Much of this summer we've seen a weather pattern that's brought a split personality to the central Midwest. Northern sections have been deluged time and time again with heavy rains while the south has withered under rainless skies. You can see in the graphic below how Iowa rains have varied from 35" to to 17" over the past 3 months.

While the extremes of this year are dramatic, it's likely to become the new norm as our climate continues to warm. In the past 30 years Iowa's temperatures have increased by about 1.3 degrees. That may not seem like much but that extra warmth allows more water vapor which in turn creates the extreme rain events we've seen much more of in the past 5-10 years. Iowa now ranks 4th in the nation in floods since 1988.

Humidity levels have also increased in the summer months to oppressive levels with dew points reaching or exceeding 80 degrees. You can't help but notice moisture like that!

Now that the table is set, here's an interesting article from the Des Moines Register which talks about how the increased intensity and frequency of storms is creating what's known as climate refugees. Enjoy..................................................................................................

At least we'll see no weather problems this weekend outside of some smoke from distant forest fires. (It should make for some excellent sunsets and sunrises). Otherwise, warm dry conditions expected with highs of 80-85. Have a great weekend and roll weather...TS