Summary:
- The coldest spring since 2010 continued in May for the PNW, while California and the southwest were warmer than average*. Plant growth is delayed throughout the PNW and closer to average or ahead of average for areas southward into California.
- The wet spring continued in May for much of the PNW, but unfortunately, already dry regions southward remained dry during the month, adding to the ongoing drought concerns. 93% of the west is currently in some level of drought, with the most severe to exceptional drought conditions rising to 44% of the western states.
- Most everywhere will see a warmup in the short-term, with a few dry days for the PNW and continued dry into California and the southwest.
- Mid-month is expected to bring warm temperatures south and east, while the PNW and northern tier of states will stay closer to average or slightly cooler than average. The PNW will likely still be in play for rain until later in the month.
- The heart of the summer is forecast to see warmer than average conditions over most of the west and the country. The cool June forecast for the PNW, will likely keep the region closer to average temperatures. The summer’s seasonally dry period will likely be just that for most, dry.
