Grab your sunglasses, Soda Citizens — summer starts Tues., June 21. The season signals the promise of warmer days + the ever-frequent afternoon showers, so to keep you and your wardrobe prepared, we’ve put together some of the major weather trends headed our way over the next few months.
Here’s what you can expect this summer in Cola and beyond, based on predictions from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center.
🌡️ Temperature
Think warm. Expect to see warmer-than-normal temperatures across much of the US, with the exception of the Midwest.
The predicted continuation of La Niña conditions plays a large role in the expected hotter-than-average June-August for the US, especially in the West.
In Columbia, temperatures are expected to be warmer through at least July. There’s a 33-40% chance of temps being above average. Usually, Columbia averages highs of 88° in June, 92° in July, and 90° in August.
🌨️ Precipitation
Keep your umbrella nearby. There’s a 40-50% chance that rain will trend above normal through July. Usually, Cola averages 3.3 inches in June, 2.09 in July, and 4.0 in August.
🌀 Hurricanes
The Atlantic hurricane season began Wed., June 1, and it’s predicted to be a season with slightly above-average activity.
⌛ Drought
The chances of a drought developing are low through July 31.
If you’re interested in finding some solstice celebrations, try these local events:
Summer Solstice Vendor Market | Sat., June 26 | 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | Gardener’s Outpost, 1211 Franklin St | Free | Stop by Gardener’s Outpost’s Cottontown location and shop with local vendors to celebrate the longest days of the year.
Solfest Rollfest | Sat., July 2 | 12-6 p.m. Earlewood Park, 1113 Recreation Drive | $15 | A music and bicycle festival featuring Columbia’s first bike-powered stage.