Well, it's been over a month since I've updated this blog due to moving and getting settled in at the new hacienda (see the last post on September 23 by clicking here). Even though I no longer reside in Dodge City, I'm not retired yet and regardless will still have a strong passion for high plains weather. So, the title of being back "sort of". I've now getting some time to get back into routine of figuring out this ridiculous dry pattern we're in. I'm just now getting "back in the groove" so it will be a bit before I go hog wild into it.
First, a look at the last 30-day rainfall map. I really don't need to show it as it's pretty obvious - we've been missing the rain. (click for a large version)
It's somewhat interesting that the southern plains have been a target so far this fall. Perhaps that is a clue. Also - the brutal cold that moved into the eastern half of the U.S. last week. That could also be a clue to this pattern. There is a LOT to analyze during this next 2 to 4 weeks.
Those that have read my blog or heard me speak know that the weather pattern that is setting up will be unrelated to what happened in 2021/2022. It's young, meaning it just started developing this past 3 to 4 weeks. I have been mostly discouraged, but yet there are a few elements that "could" show some hope. I plan to be able to address this in more detail the first week of November.
There is another "sign" that I'm anxiously waiting for which should show itself next week. I will watch the transformation of energy across the west by mid-late next week and how the eventual system (if it develops) behaves as it moves into the plains. I will be looking at much, much more but that could be another piece of the puzzle.
Many of you may have heard that this will be a "Triple Dip" La Nina this winter. I will address what this means in the next post.
Ok - fingers crossed that I can update again later next week.
