Increased risk of above-normal temps

CHAMPAIGN – We have an increased risk of above-normal temperatures through the fall.

That information is included in the latest National Weather Service forecast for May and beyond as the Pacific Ocean is currently in a neutral weather phase between La Nina and El Nino. Illinois has been running warmer than normal for the past few years. In 2016, 10 out of the 12 months were above normal.

State Climatologist Jim Angel expects an increased chance of dry conditions in Illinois during May and for northern Illinois during the May-July period.

“The rest of the state does not show this risk during the May through July period,” Angel said.

So far, April has been warmer than average in the state. The statewide average temperature is 57.1, which is 6.8 degrees above normal. Precipitation has been above normal across central and northern Illinois, but slightly below normal in the southern third of the state.