In the previous post I did on the 8th (read it
here) my optimism for precipitation had increased only slightly. I've been waiting for a change in the hemispheric weather pattern, similar to what occurred during the fall. Recently the blocking ridge off the southwest U.S. coast had broken down enough to allow a system to move through and which eventually impacted parts of the high plains and Oklahoma/Texas. The rainfall during the past two days was generous in some locations, while others missed out completely or received very little. The map follows (click for a larger version):
But, this "might" be a start! I will feel a whole lot better if the potential for late week and weekend pans out.
Looking at this mornings satellite image:
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLVsanCCUhR6EsarjIieF9rcksYp9FGkFX7b3qPKM6exwcgnfY7pBT0LRyUCox8PlgRCHIN-Bq4a0LJo-Fh3vCZJ7xJLIXV70aj225jtz5IDm3BdioQdQqeK6bH6E5jNg3kHfIdCzFGI/s1600/MJO_satellite.jpg)
There is an active MJO (Madden Julian Oscillation) that has enhanced the southern branch of the westerlies (sub-tropical jetstream). Also, the MJO appears to be influencing the northern branch (jetstream) in that a full latitude ridge may be developing (the dashed blue line). If this is the case, then the upper level systems across the north Pacific "should" be able to amplify downstream into the western U.S.. At the same time there is apparent blocking across the Atlantic. IF (a big if but I'm gaining a great deal of confidence) the two aforementioned details come together, then there should be a deep upper system develop across the western U.S. and Rockies by the end of the week (similar to what occurred during the fall). Gulf of Mexico moisture will become plentiful by then so any system moving into the plains should have no problem in generating badly needed rainfall. Like I said, I am gaining confidence in this evolution. The Weather Prediction Center has the following outlook for accumulated moisture through next Monday:
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUkjgvv7Cp17KMf5CC3Rp2j_6dMb5a3h4eMrDB8Aq_DWIt9y4-2nW0FR6TDHbbiyKfyfX6yk9DW23z4FkwJKFfVZcsUQBmhGdzm3rPLGlQ6qAXak576iyFPQpEtHUFM_tVJ2SWlnth7_Q/s1600/p168i.gif)
IF everything comes together (the stars align sorta speak), then I have no doubt there will be a lot of rainfall across this area (and perhaps heavy snow in the foothills of the Rockies). Will all areas receive this much? NO! But, it is possible many locations will. In general I would feel confident of widespread 1 to 2 inches, which will certainly go a long, long way in helping the winter wheat.
I'll update later this week.
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