June 2014 Revisited

June 2014 was:  

Above average in: Temperature, wind
Average or near in: Rainfall, solar radiation
Below Average in:  Nothing

June 2014 was windy.  And not just windy, but consistently tremendously, stupendously windy.   In fact, it was the windiest June since I've been keeping track of wind speeds here at May and Rand, and that goes back to 2001.   And from what I've heard from seasoned wind sports folks, this could well have been the windiest June (and the best windsurfing) since 1990, give or take a few years.

My station's average temperature of 63.8° was warmer than the long term June average of 61.8°, and just a little bit warmer than the more recent (2001-2013) average of 63.0°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 63.0°.

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 87°, and the low temp was 48°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were 87° and 44°.

Solar radiation averaged 620 Ly/day, compared to an average June of 611 Ly/day. 

The 24 hour average wind speed (for the month) at my weather station was 5.7 mph, compared to an average June wind speed of 4.1 mph.  The peak wind gust was 34 mph on the 18th.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (like the Waterfront) were, of course, higher. 

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.20", and the low barometric was 29.74".

Regarding rainfall, my station received 1.13", while HOXO recorded 0.67".  An average June receives 0.77".   Since my station's amount was above average, and HOXO's was below average, I'm calling it.... average.   And as mentioned in the May Revisited post, there was no measurable rain from May 11th through June 11, making for a 32 day dry spell.   It remains to be seen if that will be the longest dry spell this summer... even though it wasn't technically in summer at all...
 
There were no local weather records set in June.

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for June 2014, click here.

For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

June 2014 contained the only Friday the 13th of 2014.  Oddly enough (and this is scary), it fell on the 13th day of the month, which was.... a Friday...

Now, I'm not superstitious, but what are the odds of that??

Anyway, as Stevie Wonder reminds us, in a very musically enthusiastic and danceable manner:  "Superstition ain't the way..."

May 2014 Revisited

May 2014 was:  

Above average in: Temperature, rainfall, wind, solar radiation
Average or near in: Nothing
Below Average in:  Nothing

May 2014 was above average, in so many ways.   In fact, let me count the ways (there's 4, see above)...

My station's average temperature of 60.4° was way warmer than the long term May average of 56.1°, and way warmer than the more recent (2001-2013) average of 57.2°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 59.4°.  This was the warmest May since 1997.

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 88°, and the low temp was 41°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were 86° and 40°.

Solar radiation averaged 583 Ly/day, compared to an average May of 542 Ly/day. This was the sunniest May since 2007.

The 24 hour average wind speed (for the month) at my weather station was 4.1 mph, compared to an average May wind speed of 3.6 mph.  The peak wind gust was 32 mph on the 21st.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (like the Waterfront) were, of course, higher. 

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.39", and the low barometric was 29.68".

Regarding rainfall, my station received 2.18", while HOXO recorded 1.77".  An average May receives 1.07".   Oddly enough, the rain stopped entirely on May 11th, and the subsequent dry spell (consecutive days without any officially measurable rainfall) lasted 32 days; ending on June 12th.   Very unusual to have that long of a dry spell at this time of the year. 
 
There was one local weather record set in May. On the 8th, HOXO received 0.65" of rain, topping the previous May 8th record of 0.40", back in 1962.

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for May 2014, click here.

For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

May is sort of a teaser month, weather-wise.   Temperatures start feeling like maybe there's hope for Summer; but we still have to wait.... just a little while longer...

And speaking of waiting, this "I Will Wait" rendition from 2CELLOS is yet another one of their aurally and visually awesome productions.   Hey, it's not just women who are swooning over these 2 extremely hot guys and their music; I'm mesmerized also (by the music.....just the music...).   Amazing that they can make just 2 cellos do all that!

For more of their talented musical creations, check out their YouTube channel.

April 2014 Revisited

April 2014, summed up:  

Above average: Temperature, rainfall
Average or near: Wind, solar radiation
Below Average:  Nothing

After an exciting February and March, April calmed down into a more typical April pattern.

My station's average temperature of 52.2° was way warmer than the long term April average of 49.7°, and way warmer than the more recent (2001-2013) average of 49.6°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 51.6°. 

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 80°, and the low temp was 33°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were 78° and 32°.

Solar radiation averaged 440 Ly/day, compared to an average April of 435 Ly/day.

The 24 hour average wind speed (for the month) at my weather station was 3.0 mph, compared to an average April wind speed of 3.2 mph.  The peak wind gust was 32 mph on the 11th.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (like the Waterfront) were, of course, higher. 

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.55", and the low barometric was 29.71".

Regarding rainfall, my station received 2.64", while HOXO recorded 2.01".  An average April receives 1.66".   The abundance of April showers set up the usual May flowers sequence; not to mention, pushing us over the top for water-year precipitation.   That was a long time coming this year.
 
There were no local weather records set in April.

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for April 2014, click here.

For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

April brought the passing of a local music legend, Rick Hulett.   Not unexpected, due to his long fight with cancer, which he fought with courage, music, and love, but still a huge loss to the community, and fellow musicians across the country.   Play on, Rick...

March 2014 Revisited

March 2014 was exciting, exactly like February, only different:  

Above average: Temperature, rainfall (total precipitation), snowfall
Average or near: Solar radiation
Below Average: Wind

March came in like the proverbial lion this year.  On the 1st of the month, it snowed 1".   Not too unusual for early March.   More unusual, though, was the 6.5" of snow the next day, which set a new snowfall record for any March 2nd in Hood River.  And then... rain, rain, and more rain for nearly the whole month.   There were only 9 days in March when it didn't rain, and most of those were during the first week of Spring.

And, as in February, record daily flows were set on the Hood at Tucker Bridge during March. As warmer temperatures prevailed, and the rains continued, 7 consecutive daily flow records were set, from March 5th through the 11th.  Nowhere near flood stage, but records none the less.

After a really cold February, March turned warmer than average.  My station's average temperature of 45.7° was warmer than the long term March average of 43.8°, and a little warmer than the more recent (2001-2013) average of 44.6°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 45.2°. 

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 66°, and the low temp was 26°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were the same:  66° and 26°.   We're in tune, or something, at least for March.

Solar radiation averaged 287 Ly/day, compared to an average March of 286 Ly/day, almost an exact match.   A little surprising, due to all the rain (and therefore cloud cover), but apparently cloud cover isn't too unusual for any given March.

The 24 hour average wind speed (for the month) at my weather station was 2.0 mph, compared to an average March wind speed of 2.8 mph.  The peak wind gust was 31 mph on the 14th.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (like the Waterfront) were, of course, higher. 

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.58", and the low barometric was 29.52".

Regarding rainfall (including melted snowfall), my station received 5.79", while HOXO recorded 5.21".  An average March receives 3.17", and, as in February, this went a long way towards moving us closer to water year averages.

Regarding snowfall, we received 7.5" total, whereas an average March receives 2.2".   According to MCAREC's official records, this was the most snow received in March since 1962!   Hard to believe, but apparently true.
 
And lastly, regarding local weather records, we set 4 in March.   On the 2nd, we received 6.5" of snow, breaking the previous record of 5" in 1962).  On the 5th, 0.95" of rain fell (old record 0.74" in 1996).  And then, as things warmed up, the low temperatures on the 6th and 9th (44° and 48° respectively) set new "high low" temperature records for those dates (43° in 1997 and 47° in 1983, respectively).

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for March 2014, click here.

For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

March is an amazing month of transition; from Winter darkness into Spring lightness.   And as such, it's a very welcome renewal of wonder, hope, and faith in the wisdom of the Universe.   In other words, a Ticket to Heaven, which we've all been given, in the Here and Now, if we just take the time to appreciate it, while we can.   All the way....to Paradise...

February 2014 Revisited

Ok, so January 2014 was boring.  February 2014 was anything but, as Winter roared back onto the scene after a long absence.  

Above average: Rainfall (total precipitation), snowfall
Average or near: Nothing
Below Average: Wind, temperature, solar radiation

February started off with a bang, as actual Winter weather finally arrived.  On the 1st of the month, 1" of snow broke the long snowless streak, dating back to December 7th.   And then, on February 6th, snow arrived big time, with 9" on the 6th, 9" on the 7th, and 6" of snow on the 8th.   It then rained almost continually until February 21, at which point the deluge pretty much stopped.  All that precipitation brought the Hood basin snow-water equivalent from a low of only 20% of normal, back up into somewhat more normal ranges.   Skiers and water managers rejoiced, as did those of us who were near comatose from the boring lack of interesting weather in January.

Speaking of water, record daily flows were set on the Hood at Tucker Bridge on February 12th and 13th due to snow melt and runoff.

Temperature-wise, it was cold...very cold...  In fact, this was the coldest February since 1993.  My station's average temperature of 35.7° was much colder than the long term February average of 38.0°, and way colder than the more recent (2001-2013) average of 39.6°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 35.3°. 

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 53°, and the low temp was 12°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were 53° and 8°.

Solar radiation averaged 122 Ly/day, compared to an average February of 184 Ly/day, mostly due to the fact that it was cloudy a lot.

The 24 hour average wind speed (for the month) at my weather station was 1.6 mph, compared to an average February wind speed of 2.2 mph.  The peak wind gust was 30 mph on the 15th.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (like the Waterfront) were, of course, higher. 

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.62", and the low barometric was 29.49".

Regarding rainfall (including melted snowfall), my station received 6.60", while HOXO recorded 5.44".  An average February receives 3.84", and this went a long way towards moving us closer to water year averages.   This was the wettest February since 2000.

Regarding snowfall, we received 25" total, whereas an average February receives 7.4".  This was the most snow received in February since 1990.
 
And lastly, regarding local weather records, we set two in February.   On the 6th, the high temperature only reached 18°, setting a new "low high" record (previous record 25° in 1989).  On the 7th, the 9" of snowfall broke the old daily record of 6.2" in 1985.  

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for February 2014, click here.

For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

For some reason, every February's "Revisited" video post here for the past few years has had a Valentine's Day theme.    Which is odd, because it's probably my least favorite "Holiday".  I think the only reason I post relationship-related videos in February is because I can't figure out when else to post them.

Anyway, I suspect that the fact that "Valentines Day" even exists is due to the need to give the economy (especially the candy, flowers, and card sectors) a needed boost after a slow Winter.  Call me cynical, or call me... suspicious....

January 2014 Revisited

January 2014 was much like January 2013:  Boring.  In fact, I'm starting to think we should just skip January entirely from here on out, if this boring pattern persists.  Here's the boring summary for this January:

Above average: Temperature
Average or near: Solar radiation
Below Average: Wind, rainfall, snowfall

We moved back into the very familiar lately "warmer than average" category this month.  My station's average temperature of 37.2° was way warmer than the long term January average of 33.6°, and warmer than the more recent (2001-2013) average of 36.4°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 36.7°. 

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 54°, and the low temp was 23°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were 54° and 20°.

January continued the Ridiculously Resilient Ridge of high pressure pattern which started in December.   This continued the ridiculously low snow pack in the mountains; putting the snow-water equivalent for the Hood basin at around 20% of average.  And the ridiculous ridge gave us a ridiculously long Gray Inversion event, lasting 11 days, from 1/18 through 1/28.  That was ridiculously insane, and not in a good way.

In spite of the long inversion, solar radiation averaged 91 Ly/day, compared to an average January of 87 Ly/day.

The 24 hour average wind speed (for the month) at my weather station was 1.4 mph, compared to an average January wind speed of 2.0 mph.  The peak wind gust was 37 mph on the 11th.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (like the Waterfront) were, of course, higher. 

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.72", and the low barometric was 29.53".

Regarding rainfall, my station received 3.82", while HOXO recorded 3.11".  An average January receives 5.10", and our water-year-to-date precipitation continued to slip even further behind than in December.

To accentuate the boring tediousness of the month even more, we received no measurable snowfall, whereas an average January receives 14.6" of snow.

And the icing on the boring cake that was January 2014?  Check this out:  there were absolutely no weather records set during the month.  Is that boring, or what?

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for January 2014, click here.

For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

Ok, so it was a boring month, weather-wise.   But that didn't stop me from dreaming of sailing away to warmer places.   Well done, Brian Wilson and crew.

But there's another, better reason for this classic Beach Boys sailing-related song video.   I'm posting this (late, as usual) on May 8th, when the annual Oregon Offshore Race is going on, and as usual, local favorite "Velocity", skippered by local weather enthusiast TomK, is being cheered on.   

Hood River Weather Chat Guidelines

The Hood River Weather chat room materialized out of nothingness (into something-ness) in December, 2008.   From Day One, the participants have been remarkably civil and polite, compared to a lot of other chat forums.   That's been very much appreciated, but it's probably useful to post some guidelines as to what the chat room is for, and which topics and/or behavior are off-limits.   This is an evolving document, and it's subject to revision and clarification as the need arises.  So, here's the guidelines:

1)  The Hood River Weather forum is intended to be a friendly, informational, non-confrontational space where people can discuss weather, recreation, local events, and most other items of local interest, as long as discussions stay civil and respectful.   However, subjects such as partisan politics, religion, and anything else that can (or does) turn into an shouting match, are strongly discouraged.  Posts that stretch that too much might be deleted and those users might be banned for a period of time.


2)  The weather forum is not a place to personally attack other people in the chat room, or to criticize/attack specific local people, companies, or public/private entities.   If you disagree with something, please phrase your comments in such a way as to not be attacking.  Simply provide another view, or a constructive suggestion, without criticizing the original comment or person that made the comment.   Also, if you have a complaint about a public or private entity or regulation, don't use the chat room for that.  Please contact those people directly.
  
In other words, be kind, considerate, and respectful, as you would like to be treated yourself.

3)  One of the biggest strengths of this forum is the ability to insert informational links.  Those doing so are encouraged to provide a few words explaining what the link is for; just providing the link without explanation can result in folks not clicking on it.

Along the same lines, it's suggested that comments be succinct and to the point; they are much more likely to be read that way.

4)  During times of interesting weather, especially when hazardous conditions are likely occurring, please keep comments mostly focused on the weather, road reports, and other public safety information.   Also, if reporting conditions at your location, please specify the general location.

5)  Thanks for following these guidelines!

Tending to chat rooms, and herding cats...

December 2013 Revisited

December 2013 was:

Above average: Solar radiation
Average or near: Wind
Below Average: Temperature, rainfall, snowfall

December's are usually cold, but this one was COLD.  My station's average temperature of 34.3° was colder than the long term December average of 35.7°, and colder than the more recent (2001-2012) average of 35.4°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 33.7°. 

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 57°, and the low temp was 1°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were 57° and 0°.

This December was notable in that a Ridiculously Resilient Ridge of high pressure planted itself offshore early in the month, and diverted nearly all moisture to the north for the rest of the month.   These ridges have been way too common the past few winters. They often result in inversions, and aren't good for increasing much needed snowpack.

Solar radiation averaged 96 Ly/day, compared to an average December of 73 Ly/day.

The 24 hour average wind speed (for the month) at my weather station was 1.7 mph, compared to an average December wind speed of 1.8 mph.  The peak wind gust was 30 mph on the 21st.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (like the Waterfront) were, of course, higher. 

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.69", and the low barometric was 29.77".

Regarding rainfall, my station received 3.13", while HOXO recorded 2.98".  An average December receives 5.85", and our water-year-to-date precipitation continued to slip even further behind than in November.

Hood River received it's first measurable snowfall of the season on the 6th, when 2.0" fell, in the middle of the Arctic Blast.   An average December receives 8.6" of snow.

There were 2 local weather records set in December.  On the 1st, we were deluged with 2.23" of warm rain from the tropics, soundly breaking the old record of 1.07" set in 1942.   The warmth and the rain didn't last long though, as the Arctic Blast air moved in, setting a new low temperature record of 4° on Dec 4th.   The previous record was 9° in 2009.

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for December 2013, click here.

For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

One of the more stressful yet strangely compelling tasks in life is getting ready for Christmas Day.   Between the putting up of decorations, sending cards (you still do that?), and trying to figure out who to buy stuff for, and what they might possibly want, it's all enough to drive one to drink, not to mention eat a lot.

However, there's actually a deeper meaning to Christmas, one that involves actual joy and celebration, as Paul Simon reminds us in this song, as only Paul Simon can do.

And here's a short "making of" video, explaining some of what went into the making of. 

November 2013 Revisited

November 2013 was mostly average, except when it wasn't:

Above average: Nothing
Average or near: Temperature, wind, solar radiation
Below Average: Rainfall, snowfall

After a cooler than average October, temperatures got more average in November.  In fact, almost exactly average.   My station's average temperature of 41.8° was just slightly warmer than the long term November average of 41.5°, and even closer to the more recent (2001-2012) average of 41.6°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 41.1°. 

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 64°, and the low temp was 19°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were 64° and 17°. 

Solar radiation averaged 123 Ly/day, compared to an average November of 117 Ly/day.

The 24 hour average wind speed (for the month) at my weather station was 1.5 mph, compared to an average November wind speed of 1.6 mph.  The peak wind gust was 32 mph on the 2nd.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (like the Waterfront) were, of course, higher. 

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.83", and the low barometric was 29.38".   The high barometric was tantalizingly close to a record, at least for my station.  We get our highest pressure readings during massive winter season inversions, and this was no exception.   The highest reading for my station was 30.84" back in January 2009, during another massive temperature inversion.

Regarding rainfall, my station received 3.74", while HOXO only managed 2.84"  An average November receives 5.31", and our water-year-to-date precipitation started to slip even further behind than in October.

There was no measurable snowfall in November.   An average November receives 2.7" of snow.

There were no local weather records set in November.

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for November 2013, click here.

For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

What made this November really special was that Thanksgiving and the start of Hanukkah happened on the same day.   This apparently hasn't happened since time immoral, or maybe not quite that long, but definitely quite a while. 

So, I searched around for a video celebrating this blessed coincidence of celebrations, and came up with this one.   Hopefully it will help bring people of all cultures and creeds together, or at least offend them equally. 

October 2013 Revisited

October 2013 was different, like this:

Above average: Solar radiation
Average or near: Nothing
Below Average: Temperature, wind, rainfall

Well, it had to happen sooner or later.   After 13th consecutive months of above average temperatures, the streak ended in October.  My station's average temperature of 50.0° was cooler than the long term October average of 51.2°, and cooler than the more recent (2001-2012) average of 51.3°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 49.2°. 

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 75°, and the low temp was 29°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were 74° and 28°. 

Solar radiation averaged 269 Ly/day, compared to an average October of 242 Ly/day.

The 24 hour average wind speed (for the month) at my weather station was 1.3 mph, compared to an average October wind speed of 2.1 mph.  The peak wind gust was 30 mph on the 27th.  This was the least windy October since at least 2001.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (like the Waterfront) were, of course, higher. 

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.52", and the low barometric was 29.80".

Regarding rainfall, the month started out with a bang, and fizzled out from there.  The high daily amount was on October 1st:  0.49" at my station, and 0.53" at HOXO.  For the month, my station received 0.98", while HOXO only managed 0.84"  An average October receives 2.24", so this was a very dry month.

However, even though it was a very dry month, it was a very colorful one.  The fantastic Indian Summer weather provided a nice display of Fall foliage, as evidenced here.

There were no local weather records set in October.

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for October 2013, click here.

For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

October... travel season begins to kick into high gear, as many locals decide they would rather be somewhere warmer.  I can increasingly relate...

And speaking of traveling, especially by air, the above video was produced by Virgin America Airlines, apparently as an onboard safety video.   Definitely over the top, but pretty entertaining... at least for the first few viewings...

September 2013 Revisited

September 2013, arranged semi-neatly into categories:

Above average:  Temperature, rainfall, wind, humidity
Average or near: Nothing
Below Average: Solar radiation

My station's average temperature of 64.3° was way warmer than the long term September average of 60.3°, and warmer than the more recent (2001-2012) average of 62.3°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 63.0°.  This was the 13th consecutive month in Hood River to experience above average temperatures.

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 97°, and the low temp was 42°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were 96° and 40°. 

Solar radiation averaged 360 Ly/day, compared to an average September of 424 Ly/day.

The 24 hour average wind speed (for the month) at my weather station was 4.1 mph, compared to an average September wind speed of 3.8 mph.  The peak wind gust was 30 mph on the 1st.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (like the Waterfront) were, of course, higher. 

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.13", and the low barometric was 29.36".

The most interesting part of September's weather was:  the rainfall.    Most days were dry, but a few days were really wet, as in "record breaking wet".   My station received 3.84" for the month, while HOXO reported 3.64"  An average September receives 1.01".

Incredibly, and unfortunately, we ended up the month only 0.06" away from setting a new rainfall record for any September in Hood River.   The record month was 3.69" in 1982.   If it had been my station setting official records, we would have set one.   But am I bitter, and filled with resentment??   Nope, no more than usual!   :)

The record breaking wetness near the end of the month was brought about by the tattered remnants of Typhoon Usagi, as the tattered remnants made their tattered way across the Pacific, and reached the Pacific Northwest.  

The Hood River News reported the event thusly, which included some rather lame quotes from yours truly.  As I astutely noted, "something" combined with "something else" caused the whole exciting weather event, and resulted in records and stuff.   Hey, I just report the weather, I don't pretend to understand all the "why's" of it.  I leave that for other, more technically understanding folks.  ;)

There were 5 local weather records set this month!   3 of them in the temperature category:  On 9/3, the low of 62° broke the old "high low" record (61° in 1982).   On 9/11, the high of 96° broke the old high temperature record (95° in 1990).   And, on 9/15, the low of 62° broke the old "high low" record (60° in 2007).

The other two records were in the category of rainfall:  On 9/28, HOXO recorded 1.28", crushing the previous record (0.75" in 1947).   The next day, HOXO recorded 0.88", besting the old record (0.58" in 1962).

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for September 2013, click here. 

For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

After last month's August Revisted video, which featured "going away" on vacation, this month's video features the "coming back home" part.   Classic John Denver, tugging at the heartstrings...

August 2013 Revisited

August 2013 turned out to be:

Above average:  Temperature, rainfall, wind, humidity
Average or near: Nothing
Below Average: Solar radiation

My station's average temperature of 71.8° was way warmer than the long term August average of 66.7°, and warmer than the more recent (2001-2012) average of 69.1°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 70.4°.  This was the 12th consecutive month in Hood River to experience above average temperatures.

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 93°, and the low temp was 53°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were 94° and 52°.

The high heat index (at my station) for the month was 92°, and the low wind chill was 53°.

Solar radiation averaged 512 Ly/day, compared to an average August of 571 Ly/day.  Meaning it was a little cloudier than average, likely due to thunderstorms, which will be discussed in some detail further down here.

Speaking of thunderstorms, they provided above average rainfall for the month, and set two local precipitation records (see below).   My station received 0.57" for the month, while HOXO reported 0.47"  An average August receives 0.36".    The longest dry spell this summer (43 days) started on June 27th, and ended on August 9th, due to... you guessed it... thunderstorms...

The 24 hour average wind speed (for the month) at my weather station was 4.1 mph, compared to an average August wind speed of 3.8 mph.  The peak wind gust was 30 mph on the 1st.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (like the Waterfront) were, of course, higher. 

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.12", and the low barometric was 29.70".

Now... about those thunderstorms... On Friday, August 9th, one of the most spectacular thunderstorms in memory rolled into town, putting on an amazing show, complete with eerily awesome reddish-orange sunset skies to the west, and a double rainbow to the east.  Not to mention, breaking the rainfall record for the date.  The storm produced over 2000 lightning strikes around the Mt Hood/Gorge area, and 12,000 strikes throughout Oregon.

But wait, there's more!  The next day, August 10th, another T-storm arrived, not quite as impressive as the first, but producing measurable rainfall, which erased the "It never rains on August 10th in Hood River" record.

There were 4 local weather records set this month.  As mentioned, on the 9th we received 0.08" of rain, breaking the previous record of 0.03", set in 1989.  On the 10th, which hadn't ever had rain (at least since 1928), HOXO recorded 0.01", confirming that, yes indeed, sometimes it doesn't take much to set a new weather record.

Two "high low" temperature records were set during August.   On the 16th, the low temperature of 64° broke the previous record (63° in 2003), and on the 30th, the low of 63° topped the old record of 60° (1979)

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for August 2013, click here.  For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

Ahh, August:   Fond memories of great times spent packing the kids (if I had any) and the dogs (if I had any) into the car for long road trips... If I remember correctly, those were great times, with the greatness mostly revolving around the "getting back home" part.

Anyway, this catchy little tune from the 1983 movie "Vacation" was written by Lindsey Buckingham (of Fleetwood Mac fame).   The official video for the song is catchy also, but a little too dark and depressing for my liking, kind of like being at work.

July 2013 Revisited

July 2013 stood out, in these mostly above average ways:

Above average:  Wind, temperature, solar radiation, humidity
Average or near: Nothing
Below Average: Rainfall

My station's average temperature of 72.1° was way warmer than the long term July average of 67.3°, and warmer than the more recent (2001-2012) average of 70.2°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 71.4°.  This was the 11th consecutive month in Hood River to experience above average temperatures.

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 94°, and the low temp was 51°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were 94° and 47°.

The high heat index (at my station) for the month was 94°, and the low wind chill was 51°.

Solar radiation averaged 691 Ly/day, compared to an average July of 661 Ly/day.

My station ended up with absolutely no rainfall for the month, and HOXO also officially recorded absolutely nothing.  An average July receives 0.22". 

July was, to put it mildly, windy.   In fact, this was the windiest July since 1989, as measured at HOXO.   Those who love the wind were screaming with joy, while those of us who would like an occasional calm day in the summer, were just screaming, but couldn't be heard (because of the wind).  Still, it was good for business in Hood River.

The 24 hour average wind speed (for the month) at my weather station was 5.7 mph, compared to an average July wind speed of 4.3 mph.  The peak wind gust was 34 mph on the 4th.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (like the Waterfront) were, of course, higher.  

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.13", and the low barometric was 29.74".   This was the typical boring July lack of barometric movement, except for the daily diurnal pattern brought about by atmospheric tides.

There were 3 local weather records set this month.  They were all "high low" records, and they were all in the first 3 days of the month.  On July 1st, the low of 66° topped the old record of 65° (1987).   On July 2nd, the low of 66° demolished the previous record of 63° (1986).  And then, on July 3rd, the low of 67° barely snuck by the old record of 66° (2006).

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for July 2013, click here.  For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

Everyone knows.... it's.... windy ....

June 2013 Revisited

June 2013 wasn't its typical June-uary self this year:

Above average:  Temperature, solar radiation
Average or near: Nothing
Below Average: Wind, rainfall

My station's average temperature of 66.0° was warmer than the long term June average of 61.8°, and warmer than the more recent (2001-2012) average of 62.8°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 65.0°.  This was the 10th consecutive month in Hood River to experience above average temperatures.

The first major heat wave of the year arrived during the last week of June, first exceeding 90° on the 28th, and then exceeding 100° on the 30th.  The heat was accompanied by relatively high relative humidity, which is relatively unusual, for this relative area.

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 101°, and the low temp was 47°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were 100° and 42°.

The high heat index (at my station) for the month was 101°, and the low wind chill was 47°.

Solar radiation averaged 630 Ly/day, compared to an average June of 609 Ly/day.  Less rain, fewer clouds, longer days.... more Langley units!

Regarding rainfall, the dry spell that characterized the first half of May also characterized the first half of June.  My station ended up with 0.59" for the month, and HOXO officially recorded 0.47".  An average June receives 0.77".  The max daily precipitation was on the 25th, when my station recorded 0.29" and HOXO 0.16".  Unfortunately, the rain couldn't have come at a worse time, as the local cherry crop took a big hit.

In thunderstorm news, we actually had one!  That was on June 15th, and although it didn't provide hardly any rain locally, it did provide this great photo from Panorama Point.

The 24 hour average wind  speed at my weather station was 3.8 mph, compared to an average June wind speed of 4.1 mph.  The peak wind gust was 30 mph on the 9th.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (like the Waterfront) were, of course, higher.  

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.24", and the low barometric was 29.61".

There was one local weather record set this month.   On the 29th, the low temperature only dropped to 68°, which shattered the previous "high low" record for the date (63° all the way back in 1937).

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for June 2013, click here.  For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

This June's weather was much nicer than in recent years, and it actually felt like a Summer month (which it sort of is, but it doesn't usually feel like it).   So nice, in fact, that it seemed like a dream... 

An impressive video tribute to the Fleetwood Mac song, created by Oregonian Vickie Burns with Northwest pics and smooth transitions.   Great job, Vickie.   :)

May 2013 Revisited

May 2013 turned out to be:

Above average:  Temperature, rainfall
Average or near: Wind, solar radiation
Below Average: Nothing

My station's average temperature of 59.4° was way warmer than the long term May average of 56.2°, and way warmer than the more recent (2001-2012) average of 57.1°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 58.6°.  This was the 9th consecutive month with above average temperatures.

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 87°, and the low temp was 31°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were 88° and 31°.

The high heat index for the month was 86°, and the low wind chill was 31°.

Solar radiation averaged 534 Ly/day, compared to an average May of 543 Ly/day.

The first half of May started out with a very nice heat wave, which got all the vegetation's hopes up (and ours).   It was dry, but that was ok; a nice change from the May's we've had the past few years.

Things changed in the second half of the month.  Things cooled down, and the rains returned.  My station received 2.23" rain for the month, but HOXO officially recorded 1.80".   An average May receives 1.08". 
 
The max daily precipitation was May 29th, when my station recorded 0.82", and HOXO tallied up 0.58".

The 24 hour average wind speed at my weather station was 3.5 mph, compared to an average May wind speed of 3.6 mph.  The peak wind gust (at my location) was 29 mph on the 13th.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (such as on the Columbia River) were, of course, higher.  

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.51", and the low barometric was 29.65".

There were 5 local weather records set this month!   On the mornings of May 7th and 8th, temperatures of 58° set new "high low" records.  The previous records were 57° (1992) and 55° (1971).   And then, as the heat wave continued, the record "high low" on May 11th was broken again.  58°, compared to the old record of 55° (1987).   And then again, on May 12th, another record "high low" was set.  On that day, the low temp was 59°, while the previous record was 57° (1993).

That's only 4 records, so here's the 5th:   On May 29th, HOXO received 0.58" of rain, breaking the old record for the date:  0.52", set way back in 1932.

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for May 2013, click here.   For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

April 2013 Revisited

April 2013 was:

Above average:  Temperature, wind, rainfall (at my station)
Average or near: Solar radiation, rainfall (at HOXO)
Below Average: Nothing

My station's average temperature of 51.6° was warmer than the long term April average of 49.8°, and warmer than the more recent (2001-2012) average of 49.5°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 50.8°.  This was the 8th consecutive month to experience above average temperatures.

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 80°, and the low temp was 31°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were also 80° and 31°.   Coincidence?  I think not; just another confirmation of the old saying that "Great thermometers think alike (except when they don't)."

The high heat index (at my station) for the month was 76°, and the low wind chill was 31°.

Solar radiation averaged 429 Ly/day, compared to an average April of 435 Ly/day.

Regarding precipitation, April started off with a bang, and then fizzled out in the second half of the month.  Still, my station received 2.63" rain for the month, but HOXO officially recorded only 1.62".   An average April receives 1.66".   So, a bit of a reprieve from this otherwise dry calendar year, but not by much.

The max daily precipitation was April 7th, when my station recorded 0.61" and HOXO tallied up 0.79" (see daily record note below).

There was no measurable snowfall here at my May and Rand location.  Average April snowfall, as historically measured by MCAREC, is 0.1", which is hardly even worth mentioning, but I have to.   It's the rules, which I made up myself.

The 24 hour average wind  speed at my weather station was 3.4 mph, compared to an average March wind speed of 3.2 mph.  The peak wind gust was 32 mph on the 11th.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations (such as on the Columbia River) were, of course, higher.  

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.49", and the low barometric was 29.58".

There was one local weather record set this month.   On April 7th, HOXO received 0.61" (my station 0.79"), which broke the previous record for the date (0.50" in 1945).

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for April 2013, click here.  For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.

Whereas April showers tend to bring May flowers, they also bring occasional rainbows (and frogs).  Which brings to mind one of my favorite songs about rainbows (and frogs).   :)

March 2013 Revisited

March 2013... Here's how things shaped up (or down):

Above average:  Temperature
Average or near: Solar radiation
Below Average: Wind, rain, snow

My station's average temperature of 46.1° was way warmer than the long term March average of 43.8°, and warmer than the more recent (2001-2012) average of 44.4°. The official average temperature in Hood River, recorded at HOXO, was 45.7°.  This was the 7th month in a row to have above average temperatures, and also the warmest March since 2007.

The maximum temperature (at my station) was 75°, and the low temp was 27°. Official Hood River highs and lows (at HOXO) were 74° and 24°.  

The high heat index (at my station) for the month was 72°, and the low wind chill was 27°.

Solar radiation averaged 292 Ly/day, compared to an average March of 286 Ly/day.  This made it... average...

Regarding precipitation, my station had 2.32" rain for the month, and HOXO officially recorded 1.87".   Since an average March receives 3.17", this was another pretty dry month, the 3rd month in a row to have below average rain.

The max daily precipitation was March 20th, when my station recorded 0.58", and HOXO recorded 0.52".

There was no measurable snowfall here at my May and Rand location.  Average March snowfall, as officially (and historically) measured by MCAREC, is 2.2".

The 24 hour average wind  speed at my weather station was 2.2 mph, compared to an average March wind speed of 2.9 mph.  The peak wind gust was 33 mph on the 15th.  Wind speeds at other less sheltered locations, such as the Columbia River, were, of course, higher.  

Barometric pressure peaked at 30.46", and the low barometric was 29.59".

There were no local weather records set this month.

These monthly summaries use data from my weather station located near May and Rand Streets in Hood River. To view my weather station's data for March, click here.  For official Hood River data, and historical averages/records, the data comes from both the manually read NOAA station at MCAREC, and HOXO, the automated station located right next to MCAREC.