Ticker for September 23, 2013

                
MESONET TICKER ... MESONET TICKER ... MESONET TICKER ... MESONET TICKER ...
September 23, 2013 September 23, 2013 September 23, 2013 September 23, 2013


How do you like me now?

Now that fall is on its way? Even Toby Keith enjoyed the rains of last week, but
I'm sure he's been liking this current weather even better. Bad news for those
that missed out AGAIN on the rains (or just plain ol' didn't get enough).



Those areas show up fairly well on some of the longer-term maps. Let's take a look
since August 1.




The statewide average since August 1 is 4.46", 1.21" below normal. That's the
28th driest Aug. 1-Sept. 23 on record dating back to 1921. Some folks have been
showing off, however. The Panhandle's 6.05" is 2.11" above normal, the 13th wettest
such period. So bully for them, but that doesn't mean much to south central
or southeastern Oklahoma, who have NOT enjoyed their 9th and 10th driest such
periods on record, respectively.

But at least the temperatures have been extremely pleasant after the drier and
cooler air mass moved in following the rain. Not much solace for those that
need more (I see you, Altus!), but at least the heat has abated a bit. We've
seen quite a few 40s on the low temperature maps the last few days. Wister
dropped to 42 degrees yesterday for the lowest temperature of the season thus
far.



And today was no slouch either with a couple of 45s showing up.



Our next chance for rain comes this Friday and Saturday, it appears. Doesn't
look like a drought-buster, but any moisture is welcome, obviously.



Finally, here's an interesting problem due to the recent autumnal equinox that
marked the beginning of astronomical fall ... windshield glare! Our friends
at the NWS office in Norman remind you that since we humans build everything
we can on an east/west (and north/south) basis that for the next week or so,
that sun is going to be right in your face on your morning and evening commutes.
Here's a graphic with a few tips on how to deal with our old friend Sol being
in our face.



So enjoy the nice temperatures for the next few days and do your best Clint
Eastwood squint as your driving to and from work.

Gary McManus
Associate State Climatologist
Oklahoma Climatological Survey
(405) 325-2253
gmcmanus@mesonet.org