MikJournal Moment 10/10/2019

How does the year 2019 drought compare to other years of drought?

There really is no comparison to such years as 1953 and 1963. However, the 19 locations in Kentucky that recorded new record dry streaks for an average of 27.2 days, does compare favorably with 1985, when the average record dry streak was a little over 29.3 days for Kentucky.

But, the time period was a little bit different. Drought was becoming a hot button issue for the months of May onward, when the planting of crops was in full swing. Much of the southeast U.S. was in the grips of prolonged dry weather, from Maryland down through the Carolinas. Virginia and Kentucky were also affected moderately.

In a way, I'm sure many would like to see 1985 as an analog for the upcoming winter. January 1986 was a decent snow maker for eastern Kentucky. One snowstorm brought up to 10" to the mountains in Letcher and Harlan counties, and wind chills were reportedly in the -45 degree range.

The following month would produce more significant snow, especially around Valentine's Day, when heavy snow blanketed much of Kentucky with 4-12".

Unfortunately, it warmed up soon afterward, so that rain and snow melt produced widespread flooding concerns, mudslides, and collapsed awnings.

I don't know about you, but this could be a decent winter if you like snow. Still, I think the eastern part of the state will fare the best.