NOAA issues a “Seasonal Temperature Outlook” for the four seasons. The latest one, released on August 15, forecasts September, October, and November.
The map is color-coded. Each part of the country has a “probability” ranking of whether an area will be above, near, or below normal temperatures for the period.
The regions with a high probability of above-normal temperatures are centered around New Mexico and Maine. They also include parts of Nevada, Arizona, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, and New Hampshire.
The southwest region has already posted some of the highest temperatures in its history. This has been particularly true in the areas around Las Vegas and Phoenix. Phoenix has had 77 consecutive days when the temperature topped 100 degrees F. July was the second hottest month on record .
While “above normal” does not refer to absolute temperatures, the areas around New England may not experience their typical change of season when the thermometer drops in September. At least more people will have beach weather and don’t have to put away summer clothing.