Though we've had some warm interludes and occasional rumbles of thunder over the past few months, today brought the first episode of spring-like storms, combining warm air, heavy rain and frequent lightening. The current weather system, now centered over northwest Missouri, is riding a late winter jet stream, which undulates across central latitudes of the continent. As a result, more heat and humidity have been swept northward, ahead of the front, igniting the thunderstorms and heavy precipitation; north of the storm, heavy snow will blanket the Upper Midwest.
This round goes to spring but winter has plenty of fight left and cold air will sweep in as the front pushes off to the east. But the struggle has been engaged and, over the next two months, spring will take control. Meanwhile, we'll endure a mix of raw and mild days, with all varieties of precipitation, perfect weather for the squadrons of waterfowl that will pass through the State.
So get out that rain gear, grab the binoculars and head for the wetlands!
