State climatologist: June was slightly cooler and definitely drier than normal

Posted on July 4, 2023
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June precipitation totals are still being calculated because of last week’s storms that swept across the central portion of the state. (WJBC file photo)

By IIS Radio

SPRINGFIELD – June weather was slightly cooler and definitely drier than normal in Illinois.

The preliminary statewide average temperature last month was 71 degrees. That’s about a degree below normal.

State climatologist Trent Ford says usually when the weather is so dry, temps are pretty hot.

“It was this weird northeast pattern that brought us dry air out of central Canada, but it was also somewhat cool,” said Ford. “The nighttime temperatures were almost three degrees below normal statewide and that is because we just didn’t have the humidity and it was dry, so the nights were very pleasant.”

June precipitation totals are still being calculated because of last week’s storms that swept across the central portion of the state. The National Weather Service has so far confirmed five tornados on June 29 in DeWitt, Logan, Sangamon and Christian counties.

Even with that much-needed rain, Ford says overall, last month will likely be one of the top 10 driest Junes on record in Illinois and many areas are still facing significant drought conditions.

WJBC News can be reached at [email protected]

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