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Midwest Sizzles as West Shivers in Extreme October Weather
4 Oct
Summary
- Temperatures 15-30°F above average in central US
- Snow expected in western mountains, chilly conditions
- Wet weather forecast for Florida and Gulf Coast
As the federal government shutdown drags on, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forced to halt some of its services, even as the weather this weekend promises to be anything but ordinary across the United States.
In the central and eastern parts of the country, temperatures are forecast to soar 15 to 30 degrees above average, easily challenging records that have stood for decades. Cities like Minneapolis could see highs in the mid-to-upper 80s, feeling more like midsummer than early October. This late-season heat wave is being driven by a strong high-pressure system and will create a moderate to major heat risk across the northern Plains and Midwest.
Meanwhile, the western U.S. is bracing for a stark contrast, with several inches of snow expected in the mountains and chilly conditions prevailing. A strong cold front moving through the Rockies and Intermountain West will bring rain, the potential for severe weather, and even winter storm conditions to the higher elevations.
Not to be left out, Florida and parts of the Southeast and Gulf Coast will see a mostly soggy and damp weekend, with the potential for localized flooding, especially along the east coast of the Sunshine State.
