TROPICAL TIDBITS...

All that tropical moisture and heat over the past few days is the stuff that breeds hurricanes. The sun's energy and warm water vapor from the oceans provide the fuel for these power hungry storms. They are at their strongest when their circulations are over the sea and friction is less. However, there are quite a few examples of times when the remnants of tropical cyclones have gone on to create heavy rains and even some wind issues here in the Midwest. Below you can see the tracks of past tropical remnants to effect the region.

A detailed report, issued by the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, indicates there are 17 documented cases of tropical remnants that have in some way impacted eastern Iowa and NW Illinois since 1886. I found it interesting that 7 of these were once major hurricanes.

One of them, the Great Galveston Hurricane of 1900, the deadliest in U.S. history, took a swipe at our area in September 1900. The storm killed at least 8,000 people (especially in proximity to Galveston Island), where it unexpectedly roared ashore. Another 10,000 were rendered homeless.

While the impacts were minimal this far north, Galveston Island was essentially destroyed by the 15-16 ft storm surge and winds of 145 mph. The highest point on the island was just 8.7 feet.

61 years later, the remnants of former hurricane Carla worked their way into the Midwest. The 1961 storm, which at one time produced 175 mph winds, was especially impactful locally as a heavy rain producer. Amounts of 3–6 inches were widespread. Here are some actual reports.

Moline 6.21"

Burlington 5.93"

Macomb 4.42"

Dubuque 3.67"

Cedar Rapids 2,67"

Below are rain totals compiled following the storm. Heavy amounts extended from the Great Lakes to Texas.

After making landfall as a category 4 near Port O'Conner, Texas, the storm reached Chicago as a tropical depression.

Carla produced 43 fatalities during her lifetime.

This year, hurricane Beryl just grazed my southeastern counties as it moved into the Ohio Valley, where it produced up to 6 inches of rain in NW Indiana. Its rain is included in these totals that have occurred over the past 7 days.

Going out 30 days, much of the central Midwest has measured 6–12 inches of rain. In most areas that's 2-3 times more than normal.

Recently, extremely heavy rain falling on the headwaters of the Rock River is causing rapid rises. Major flooding is now expected in Joslin and Moline. Here are the anticipated crests late this week.

ANOTHER DERECHO

New information has been released regarding Monday's severe storms that produced widespread damaging winds in excess of 70 mph for many parts of my area.  The Storm Prediction Center has classified the event as a "Derecho", which by definition is a swath of wind damage at least 400 miles long and at least 60 miles wide, including several well-separated significant wind gusts over 75 mph. Corridors of significant wind damage occurred along Highway 20 as well as in the Cambridge/Kewanee area.

Several tornadoes also occurred with these storms.  Storm surveys are ongoing and more information will be added in coming days as it becomes available from the NWS. So far, at least 3 EF1 tornadoes have been confirmed near Davenport, Taylor Ridge, and Kewanee.

In addition to the wind, very heavy rainfall fell in a short amount of time Monday, with many locations seeing over an inch.  The highest totals fell in McDonough and Warren counties in Illinois where amounts between 2 and 3 inches fell. 

As far as additional rain and impactful weather goes, we are done with it through at least the weekend. The upper air pattern is reverting to a strong northwest flow. Going forward, our air masses will originate in Canada, where the air is fresh and dry.

Take a look at these temperatures through July 26th. I'll take those anytime in July.

You will also notice a lot less humidity, with dew points into the low 50s by Thursday. Far better than those that hovered around 78-80 Monday. The end result is sunny, dry, and pleasant weather through Sunday. Good stuff!

With that, I will call it a post. Have a solid day and roll weather...TS

THE REVIEWS ARE SPECTACULAR. OUR AIRBNB IS A MOST LOVED GUEST FAVORITE!

AIRBNB has rated my renovated church in Galena A GUEST FAVORITE, A MOST LOVED home according to visitors. Check out some of our reviews and get in on the flexible deals we have available below.

Christa-Monument, Colorado

The Little White Church is amazing!!!! Pictures do not do it justice. I would absolutely recommend it to my friends and family. It is just so unique. Carolyn is an amazing host and super responsive. I would give our experience 6 out of 5 stars if I could.

Phillip-Queensland, Australia

Amazing and thoughtful renovation. Stayed in a piece of history. Great location and modern amenities. Would stay again!

Jill

The Little White Church is beautiful. The decorations are perfect, and it was redone with impeccable taste. Carolyn was a great host.

Brent

Such a gem. Relaxing in the countryside in a historic church that was beautifully decorated and recently renovated was exactly what we experienced. Everyone loved our stay, and we will be back!!!

Leigh

Beautiful and unique. We were all captivated by the adorable chapel turned AIRBNB

Jenny-Frisco, Texas

It was a magical place for our family to celebrate Christmas!

Kelly

What a gem! The Little White Church exceeded our expectations. It was the perfect spot to meet up with another couple to relax and explore nearby Galena. We enjoyed the beautiful great room with its fireplace and amazing views of the rolling countryside. (The photos simply can't do it justice). The charming church/home was quiet, well appointed and clean. And Carolyn was proactive with instructions and a terrific communicator. We will definitely be back!

John

Absolutely incredible! Loved the tranquility and the beautiful views. The decor was so inviting. AND the bell tower works!! Would 100% stay here again!

Tori-Cedar Falls

This place is so beautiful! Carolyn and Terry were so thoughtful and kind to let us have our wedding at the church. They even provided extra supplies in case we needed them. The private garden worked perfectly for our ceremony, and the backyard easily fit our reception needs. Not to mention, the balconies make perfect photo spots! My husband and I recommend the Little White Church and will be telling all our friends about it.

Mahesh-Buffalo Grove

Carolyn was a great host, very flexible! The place is super clean, spacious with a private backyard overlooking the fields and bluffs! We spent a lot of time on the deck. Great kitchen, clean bedrooms and baths. Highly recommend the place.

William

Great place. Great host. Will definitely book again and tell our friends.

Miriam

Carolyn and Terry's place is BEAUTIFUL! The Little White Church is a wonderful place, way more beautiful than the pictures. Everything is brand new and extremely clean. Staying at the church was a unique experience and I would love to come back soon. I strongly recommend the place if you are looking for a 5-star location!

Vanessa-Chicago

Carolyn was great! Absolutely beautiful place! I would not hesitate to go back. We spent Thanksgiving and the next night. Very well stocked and above and beyond with extras included. Thank you!

MAKE US AN OFFER...

What about pricing? Right now, we are able to offer you our best pricing ever. We have 3 nights for the price of 2 which, depending on the days, can save as much as $300-$400 dollars. If you book directly through us, you can also eliminate booking fees and taxes that the big chains charge. Cleaning fees are also drastically reduced. It all adds up to exceptional deals at a destination worth visiting. Let us assist in finding a time and price that works for you. Here's a link to some pictures. https://www.tswails.com/galena-airbnb

Carolyn and I will do all we can to make sure your stay is a memorable one. Please call or text Carolyn for more details and options and get a prime date while they are still available. Again, that's Carolyn at 563-676-3320. Or carolynswettstone@yahoo.com

Now that it's vacation season, there is no better place to visit than Galena and no better place to stay than my newly renovated AIRBNB, the Little White Church. We are located in the bluffs, just 5 miles from the 2nd largest tourism destination in Illinois. In fact, "Tourist Destination", rated Galena as the 2023 top place to visit in the entire Midwest.

Now is the best time to enjoy all there is to offer, and my 5-star AIRBNB is the perfect location to stay. Set in the rolling hills just outside of town, our completely renovated church is designed for you to unwind and relax.

Again, we are an AIRBNB Super host and can accommodate up to 8 guests. We've got cable, hi-speed WIFI, Sirius XM and a sparkling full kitchen. We are a home away from home and take great pride in cleanliness and comfort. All of our ratings have attained perfect 5-star status!

Hope to see you soon,

Terry and Carolyn

7 GREAT REASONS TO VISIT GALENA

1. It’s Steeped In History

2. It’s Home To One Of The Best Main Streets In America

3. The Restaurants Are Amazing

4. There’s A Lot To Do Outdoors

5. You Don’t Have To Travel To The Mountains To Go Skiing

6. It’s A Great Place To Spend The Fourth Of July

7. Did I Mention The Shopping?