Downpours will continue to drench parts of the northeastern United States, threatening localized flash flooding into early this week. Even areas that haven’t seen recent wet weather – including drought-prone areas – are expected to see rainfall as showers and thunderstorms become more widespread.
Wet areas of the Ohio Valley will see additional precipitation early in the week, but the main focus of the rain will shift eastward and focus over the inland Northeast as the storm moves through the region. Showers and storms will also hit coastal areas of the Mid-Atlantic and New England early in the week.
Monday is likely to be the wettest day yet along the Interstate 95 corridor, including major metro areas such as Washington, DC, Philadelphia and New York. Downpours can lead to road puddles and localized flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas, while the heaviest downpours can reduce visibility and slow traffic.
Wet weather may put a damper on outdoor plans early in the week and possibly the first day of school for some students, but much of the area may need some rain. According to the latest data, more than 50% of the Northeast region was abnormally dry US Drought Monitor report released last Thursday.
Southern New England is experiencing some of the harshest drought conditions in the region. Most of Rhode Island — 99% of the state — is in extreme drought, and 75% of Massachusetts is in severe or extreme drought.
From July 1 of this year Boston only 0.89 inches of rain fell. Typically, more than 5 inches of precipitation falls on average from early July to mid-August.
If dry conditions persist into late August, fall foliage may be affected.
Long-range AccuWeather meteorologists warned earlier this month, at forecast for autumn 2022that dry conditions and prolonged heat can delay peak fall foliage.
“If dry conditions persist over the next month or so, it could compromise the vibrant fall foliage colors,” AccuWeather Meteorologist Nicole LoBionda explained.
For those looking to get outside and enjoy the last few weeks of summer, the wet pattern will eventually break. Drier conditions are likely to return to the Northeast during the second half of the week.
https://www.indianagazette.com/news/state/flooding-risk-drought-relief-on-the-way-for-northeast/article_fc54ca8c-b738-5a72-9274-ad7a7c5d9925.html
