Looking at the Housatonic River from the Cottage Street Bridge in Great Barrington shows two large rocks and the water flowing along the bottom of each of them. Thirty days ago, the water level was barely touching the rocks’ bottoms with the water so low. But thanks to nearly seven inches of rain, levels have increased slightly.
Still, the rainfall for the summer remains much below average. I include September in my summer totals because most continue summer-like at my and many other weather stations. Looking at past years, I’ve recorded summers that received less rain than this summer but not considered drought, as in South Berkshire 2019, 1999,1995,1984.
On the other hand, many Septembers have been very wet after a dry June, July, and August such as 1987, 1977. But normally precipitation in September is showery.
As far as temperatures are concerned, warmer and warmer seem to be the norm now. While not as warm as last year’s September we were still above average, as the chart shows. The last time we had a mean temp below 60 in September was 2000. And over all, since my recording started in 1965, there were 14 and all in the last century — more evidence of global warming.
By the way, our 37 degree reading recorded on the last day of the month was our first 30 degree reading since May 11th.
I’m ready for fall and a good frost. The gardening is about done, just a few sun gold tomatoes and raspberries.
So now we wait for the flaming all revue. How colorful will it be this year? After 2 rather disappointing years we are hoping for better color this year.
No matter what we get, enjoy the month, winter is coming. By the way, what was left of storm Ian gave us 2.24 inches of rain this past Tuesday and Wednesday.