Today the NWS Climate Prediction Center released their forecast for December, winter, and spring. Of course, the strong El Niño in the Pacific Ocean is the dominant player in the forecast. It is expected to remain strong this winter, before transitioning to neutral conditions in late spring/early summer.
In general, over the next six months Illinois will have an increased chance of being warmer than average, while parts of Illinois will have an increased chance of being drier than average. The strongest effects of El Niño will likely be felt in northern states (warmer and drier than average), and in the Southwest and Southeast US (cooler and wetter than average).
December
For December, Illinois has an increased chance of being warmer than average. There is no increased risk of being wetter or drier in December.
Winter
For winter, Illinois has an increased chance of being warmer than average. The eastern half of Illinois has an increased chance of being drier than average. The western half of Illinois has no increased chance of being wetter or drier than average.
Spring
For spring, the northern half of Illinois has an increased chance of being warmer than average. The southern half has no additional chance of being warmer or cooler than average. Parts of eastern and northern Illinois have an increased chance of being drier than average. The rest of the state has no increased chance of being wetter or drier than average.
