Thanks to an upper level low, parked over Oklahoma, we have received a steady plume of Gulf moisture since early this morning, producing a gray overcast and intermittent showers. The temperature in central Missouri has gradually climbed through the day and should peak near 50 degrees F. As a potent cold front approaches from the northwest, the southerly flow will intensify and overnight lows may not dip below today's high; by tomorrow afternoon, we should be in the mid to upper sixties.
Chilly, winter rain is among the least pleasant of weather conditions but, in light of our prolonged drought, we'll take every drop that comes our way. Unfortunately, the primary moisture plume is flowing east of our region and heavy rains will mainly douse the lower Mississippi and Ohio Valleys; potent thunderstorms are expected to remain along the Gulf Coast. Nevertheless, we'll receive a welcome dose of spring in mid January before the next winter storm sweeps in from the Plains.
Meanwhile, the days are steadily lengthening, great horned owls are nesting and tree squirrels have become noticeably frisky as their mating season begins. Our march toward spring has gained momentum, fueled by a higher sun and, to date, a decent amount of winter precipitation. Hopefully, this winter rain is a sign that the La Nina cycle has run its course and that the parched American Heartland will enjoy a regular supply of rain and snow in the coming months.
