It’s little wonder Wednesday’s predicted temperature uptick and the stronger, wind-driven warming predicted ahead of a powerful spring storm Thursday are being welcomed here. Mild readings have been in short supply for two weeks. Tuesday marked the 15th consecutive day with temperatures at or below normal.
A Pacific storm, responsible for record rains Tuesday across southern California, is the latest in a series of powerful low pressures to blossom west of Hawaii, drench the Islands then race to the West Coast. March rainfall across our 50th state has been extraordinary. Honolulu, which typically records 1.69” of rain this month, has been swamped by 11.15”. Even more impressive is the 34.12” this month at Lihue (3.14” is normal) and 25.45” at Hilo (where 12.41” is typical). On the U.S. mainland Tuesday, 4.50” fell in the mountains surrounding Los Angeles.
-Tom Skilling
WGN-TV Chief Meteorologist Tom Skilling and the WGN Weather Center staff provide daily coverage of weather in the Chicago area.
