The dew points have certainly climbed out of the basement. At 55.9°F, it feels like a night in late July rather than late May. Today the weather was nothing but unsettled. We had no rain or showers here, but we went from clouds and overcast to sun to clear to partly cloudy to overcast and back to clear. This morning was comfortable, but as the day wore on it became much more humid. Right now (near midnight) it is quite humid as the dew point indicates. The closer the dew point is to the current temperature the more humid it is, and right now only about six degrees separate the current temperature and the dew point.
The weather indicators and instruments are another matter. The weather stick is straight, so it does not know what it is going to do, and it is predicting unsettled weather. The wither station console and Min/Max Thermometer are predicting deteriorating conditions and rain. The remote weather station is predicting a mix of sun and clouds, so again unsettled weather. Unsettled seems to be the order of the day, and that is what I will go with as well
High Temperature: 84.3°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.96
Relative Humidity: 82%
Dew Point: 55.9°F
Heat Index: 86.0°F
Wind Direction: South
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: None
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 61.5°F

Despite the overcast, the temperature is already on the rise. The high-pressure system that was in control yesterday is apparently gone and the barometric pressure is beginning to fall. Before it rains, I hope to get outside and start cleaning up the weeds that are trying to take over the garden. The ground is finally dry enough to walk on. At least I should be able to replant those crops that have rotted in the ground due to the rain we have had this month. A summary of the conditions for the month should appear early tomorrow morning.
The Weather Stick still seems to have it as close to correct as one can get. It is pointed slightly down, indicating continued unsettled weather. Two of the electronic instruments are predicting improving conditions with sun, and the Min/Max Thermometer is predicting rain. Once again, I ask, who can you believe? I have checked the NOAA forecast map, the NEXRAD Radar and the Weather Underground Model Map, and it appears that we are in for some rain later this morning and into tomorrow. Unsettled is the best I can come up with for a forecast for this area with a chance for rain and showers.
Low Temperature: 54.3°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.19
Relative Humidity: 81%
Dew Point: 49.4°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: Southeast
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: None
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 55.5°F

The overcast concerns me a bit, because the garden is just getting to the point where it can be walked on. If it rains it will set me back another two or three days. The temperature is just about where it needs to be to assist in the growing of the vegetables. My beets are up, as are the cauliflower, broccoli, lettuce and garlic. I still have not seen any Okra, carrots or onions. We have had no rain today, but this morning's sky was certainly threatening.
The weather stick is still slightly up, so it is still indicating unsettled weather. All three of the electronic instruments are indicating sunny and fair weather. From the look of the sky, and from the red sky this morning, I do not believe them. Based on what I see I still think there is a chance of showers over the next twelve hours. We will get whet we will get, and we will get it all.
High Temperature: 70.7°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.22
Relative Humidity: 55%
Dew Point: 51.4°F
Heat Index: 75.6°F
Wind Direction: South
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: None
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 67.8°F

This morning dawned with a brilliant red sky (sailors Take Warning), mostly cloudy and cooler. The barometric pressure is up, and we had no rain overnight. The unsettled conditions that were predicted for last night are still in place. A front has passes, as is evidenced by the wind shift, but it has not moved far beyond us at this point.
The weather stick is pointed slightly down, indicating once again that there are some unsettled conditions in our futures. The three electronic instruments are all in agreement indicating improving conditions and sunshine. When they all agree like this the forecast that they propose is usually correct. I will suggest that we will have a nice day today with pleasant temperatures.
Low Temperature: 60.4°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.15
Relative Humidity: 72%
Dew Point: 52.1°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: East Southeast
Wind Speed (mph): 2.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: None
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 60.6°F

Will sailors Take Warning

The day is drawing to a close (only about four hours left) and the rain in this area has held off. It has gotten hot (over 90°F) and a bit more humid than yesterday. Therefore, this would definitely qualify as a summer day. Almost everyone should be happy with today's weather. If the rest of the summer season is as good as this weekend has been we should have plenty of homegrown vegetables from our currently wet gardens. We can live in hope.
The weather stick has caught up with the weather and is predicting good weather. All three of the electronic instruments are predicting a mix of sun and clouds (unsettled conditions), and two of them are predicting improving conditions, while one is predicting that conditions will deteriorate. Oh well, who can we believe? I won't even take a guess at this one other than to say that the conditions will be unsettled.
High Temperature: 92.3°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.94
Relative Humidity: 41%
Dew Point: 62.1°F
Heat Index: 92.7°F
Wind Direction: Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 88.8°F

The Weeds Are Steadily Growing

Despite the overcast and humidity I am hopeful that any rain will hold off until after the towns and cities have their parades and celebrations for Memorial Day. Overnight the temperature did not go below 50°F. It is already above 58°F with a relative humidity of 81%. This is starting out like a typical summer day, warm and humid. If you are having a barbecue as part of your celebration today, I would suggest that you have it early rather than later, because I think we will have some rain out of this current weather system.
My weather instruments are exhibiting the same suggestion. The weather stick is straight, once again indicating unsettled weather. The weather station console and Min/Max Thermometer are forecasting deteriorating conditions together with a chance of rain. The remote weather station is suggesting a mix of sun and clouds, or unsettled weather at best. As I have been saying for most of the time leading up to the holiday, I do not hold out a great deal of hope for today's weather and outdoor activities.
Low Temperature: 51.0°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.01
Relative Humidity: 71%
Dew Point: 53.0°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 58.8°F

The tale can now be told. It got hot this afternoon, but it was dry. Even with the temperature in the nineties it did not feel hot because of the low humidity. I did get out and get some wood to feed my boiler, and it was pleasant doing the work. It would be good if the weather will hold through tomorrow so the people celebrating Memorial Day will have good weather for their celebrations.
Right now the Weather Stick, Weather Station Console and Min/Max thermometer are in agreement calling for pleasant weather for the next 12 hours. The remote weather station is calling for a mix of clear and clouds. With the Cirrostratus clouds giving us a frosted glass appearance to the sky I would tend to agree that we will have some sun, but there is still a chance for some unsettled weather with showers.
High Temperature: 91.7°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.01
Relative Humidity: 28%
Dew Point: 55.8°F
Heat Index: 89.0°F
Wind Direction: Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 3.7
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 89.0°F

For the first time in many moons it was a comfortable night for sleeping with the windows open. The low temperature did not get below 45°F, and that made it absolutely delightful. I got outside before the sun was fully up, and I took the picture below. I am not quite sure what the picture shows, but there appear to be some heavenly bodies rising along with the sun. If anyone can identify them, or if they know what is pictured there please inform me. I am curious to know if it is a function of the camera, the atmosphere, or the sun.
The weather stick is slightly down, and clinging to its prediction of unsettled weather. Two of the other instruments are indicating improving conditions with sunshine. The remote station is forecasting a mix of sun and clouds. I would like to discount the weather stick, since it almost always is pointed down in the morning. I would like to believe the two instruments predicting sunshine, but I suspect that the truth is probably closer to the mix of sun and clouds. This afternoon will tell the tale.
Low Temperature: 46.2°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.03
Relative Humidity: 89%
Dew Point: 44.0°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: West Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 46.5°F

A Not Quite Summer Sunrise

This afternoon it has been hazy, hot and humid. This is almost like summer. We do need it, and so do the gardens. With this heat those vegetables that have survived the wet weather should grow apace. Now, if the garden will dry enough so that it can be walked on I can replant the things that have rotted, and get the garden back on track.
The instrumentation is once again totally confused. The weather station console is calling for unsettled weather with deteriorating conditions. The Min/Max Thermometer is saying sunny, but deteriorating conditions, and the remote station is just saying clouds. The weather stick is just slightly up, so it is calling for unsettled weather with improving conditions. I will therefore say we will have unsettled conditions for the next twelve hours or so.
High Temperature: 78.6°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.78
Relative Humidity: 58%
Dew Point: 60.4°F
Heat Index: 80.0°F
Wind Direction: North Northwest
Wind Speed (mph): 3.3
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 76.2°F

As I suspected last night we did have a shower that lasted about an hour from 01:30 to about 02:30. Since then, the fog has rolled in to obliterate the sky. The temperature is significantly higher than it has been for the last couple of weeks, but it is no drier, and the barometric pressure is lower than it has been lately.
For anyone keeping track (other than me) I actually mowed my lawn for the first (and only) time on 6 May. I had high hopes for the lawn and garden at that time. Since then we have had almost six inches of rain. That is not quite as much as last year, but it is still enough to put a damper on the lawn and garden care. I am seriously disappointed.
The weather stick is pointed down, and we all know what that means. All the electronic instruments are predicting rain. I guess that we will have some more rain today. According to the NEXRAD Radar and Modeling Maps any rain we get should be gone by noon. I will believe that when I see it. The rest of the weekend is predicted to be almost summer like. We shall see, since I am not that optimistic.
Low Temperature: 55.9°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.6
Relative Humidity: 90%
Dew Point: 55.9°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 0.6
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Showers & Fog
Amount (inches): 0.04
Current Temperature: 58.8°F

Yes, all the weather instrumentation and indicators are in agreement, finally. They are all saying that conditions will deteriorate and we will have some rain. There is not a great deal I can add to that, except to say that it feels very humid, and I would not be at all surprised to see rain before morning.
Now to today's observations. We started out with clouds, then we had a little bit of sun. The temperature came close to 80°F and that was a nice change. I did mow my lower pasture, just to get the goldenrod under control. I also mowed my lawn because it was in desperate need of it. While I was mowing I was rained on now and then, but it was just a passing cloud, and there was no measurable precipitation. It has only been about a week and a half since I last mowed the lawn, and it was as if I had not touched it.
I was looking at the garden this afternoon, after I had finished the mowing, and I found the lettuce is up, and so are the broccoli and cauliflower. I guess all is not lost, but I think I will need to replant the corn and the peas. The garden has to dry out a bit first though. I cannot walk easily in oatmeal consistency earth, and that is what I currently have
High Temperature: 78.0°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.58
Relative Humidity: 84%
Dew Point: 56.9°F
Heat Index: 79.5°F
Wind Direction: South
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Showers
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 61.8°F

We still seem to be in the grips of an unsettled weather pattern. On arising this morning I found clouds, although higher clouds than we have been seeing. These appeared to be altocumulus clouds rather than the stratocumulus we have been seeing. It has not rained yet today, but it certainly looks like it will. For the time being I will probably let the animals go outside, but I will get them in if it starts to rain. I still have not been able to mow the lawn, and that needs to be done, as does the replanting of the garden. One of the goats got into the garden and her hooves went about eight inches deep. I cannot work on the garden when it is like that, and the planting window is starting to close.
The weather stick is pointed down, and that is no surprise. The Min/Max Thermometer is still predicting rain and the remote station is predicting clouds. The weather station console is no longer hanging on to sunshine, but has changed its forecast to mixed sun and clouds with the weather deteriorating. This last certainly seems to be the way to go. I will stick to the forecast of unsettled or unstable weather with a pretty good chance of showers. Unlike the prognosticators that keep saying that Sunday and Monday will be great, I do not hold out a great deal of hope for the weekend as a whole.
Low Temperature: 40.8°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.70
Relative Humidity: 88%
Dew Point: 44.6°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: South Southeast
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 48.0°F

By ten o' clock, the promise of a clear day had disappeared. The sky had become overcast and there was a threat of showers. We had several of those throughout the day, but they did not produce enough precipitation to measure. The streets and sidewalks would get barely wet and it would stop for a while, and then we would have another one. Right now, where the sun is there is a hole in the clouds, but it does look like there might be a healthy shower off to our west.
The instrumentation still cannot agree on a forecast. The weather stick is slightly up, and I would like to believe that it is indicating some improvement in the weather, although still a bit unsettled. The Min/Max Thermometer is calling for rain and deteriorating conditions. The remote station is clinging steadfastly to cloudy conditions. The weather station console is clinging just as steadfastly to improving conditions and sun. With all this disagreement, the only thing I can say is that the unsettled conditions will continue for another twelve hours or so. The prognosticators keep telling us that Sunday and Monday will be great, but I have heard that in past years only to see the entire weekend turn out rainy and unsettled. Currently the model does not show that the entire weekend will be a loss, but we will have to wait and see. We will be able to tell by Tuesday.
High Temperature: 72.3°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.76
Relative Humidity: 49%
Dew Point: 51.8°F
Heat Index: 77.0°F
Wind Direction: Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 4.2
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Showers
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 72.1°F

When I first arose there were a few clouds on the eastern horizon, and a little bit of ground fog. Since then the clouds have dissipated, and the ground fog has burned off leaving us with wet grass and clear skies. The temperature is already into the forties, and what wind there was came from the west, and is now calm. The radar images are showing no storms close to us, so we may dry out a bit. The model weather map is not predicting any clouds for the area today, and maybe not until later tomorrow afternoon. I will believe that when in happens.
Right now, my weather instruments are confused. The weather stick points down, and that is just not believable. The Min/Max Thermometer is predicting unsettled weather with a deteriorating tendency. The remote station is suggesting that the weather will be cloudy, and I don't believe that either. The weather station console is predicting an improving tendency with sunshine or clear weather. I would like to believe that. Confucius is reported to have said that a man with one watch always knows what time it is, but a man with two watches is never quite sure. That is the way I feel right now about my plethora of weather stations. I think that we will remain somewhat unsettled, although we may not have any rain for the next twelve to twenty-four hours. We shall see what happens.
Low Temperature: 39.3°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.87
Relative Humidity: 90%
Dew Point: 37.2°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: West
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: 39.3°F
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 39.9°F
The Downy Woodpecker pictured below has been visiting our feeder and the road signs around the area for the past several days.

We have certainly had a mix of weather today. Until late this afternoon, we had no sun, but we have now had just a few minutes of it. We have had a lot of clouds, some wind and a few very light showers. Unsettled is certainly the only way to describe this run of weather. The planting season keeps moving away from us, and that is not good. Memorial Day is rapidly approaching, and there are two things we need, sun and dry weather. Obviously this will be the start of our summer season, and over the years I have noticed that as the Memorial Day weekend goes so goes the summer. If we have "good" weather for the weekend we have a good summer, and if we have "bad" weather for the weekend the summer is the same. Keep your fingers crossed for good weather.
Right now, the weather stick is pointed slightly up predicting a positive change, but still unsettled. The Min/Max thermometer and weather station console are predicting improvement with sun, and the remote station is predicting clouds. I still do not see any major change, and I expect that the unsettled weather will continue a bit longer.
High Temperature: 64.7°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg):29.85
Relative Humidity: 51%
Dew Point: 44.0°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: West
Wind Speed (mph): 2.4
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Showers
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 62.2°F

There is still considerable overcast with us this morning. We have not had any rain showers, but I think the threat is still there. It is reasonably comfortable outside with the temperature in the mid-forties. The wind is calm, so the black flies should be voracious. Without any insect repellent, I will not spend a great deal of time outside today. I still hope to get the lawn mowed and trimmed today, if it will remain dry.
The weather stick is pointed slightly down, so there is a change afoot. The Min/Max Thermometer and weather station console are both indicating improving and sunny conditions. The remote weather station is indicating clouds still. The general consensus among the models, the radar and my instruments is that there will be unsettled weather, but improvement over the next twelve hours, but still a chance for showers.
Low Temperature: 42.0°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.83
Relative Humidity: 84%
Dew Point: 39.7°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: West Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: 44.0°F
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 44.2°F

During the day today we have had scattered clouds and quite a bit of wind. With the temperature in the upper fifties and low sixties, it has been quite pleasant. I was able to split the last of the willow branch that needed to be cut down. I probably should have stayed home and mowed my lawn, but I had some errands that I needed to run, so I did that instead. It was a good day to do that as well.
The weather stick is slightly up indicating still unsettled conditions, but improving. The Min/Max thermometer and the weather station console are both calling for sunny weather with improvement. The remote station is still saying unsettled/cloudy weather. The former and the latter seem to have the best grasp on the forecast, and that is what I feel as well, considering the sky, the wind and the general feel of the atmosphere. So, we will probably have unsettled weather overnight with some clouds and a chance of showers.
High Temperature: 65.3°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.76
Relative Humidity: 56%
Dew Point: 42.1°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: West
Wind Speed (mph): 6.4
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 59.5°F

Here we go again. When I stepped out to take Bart for his morning constitutional we had a brief rain shower. The clouds are moving in from the west, and it is cool. The wind, right now, is mostly calm but gusting up to about 6 miles per hour. It seems like it is going to be a repeat of the weather we had over the weekend.
The weather stick is straight indicating the continuation of unsettled conditions. The weather station console indicates improving conditions with sunshine. The Min/Max thermometer is indicating deteriorating conditions with mixed sun and clouds, and the remote station is indicating clouds. My best guess is that we will continue with the unsettled weather, and have mixed sun and clouds with a chance for some showers during the day today. It certainly seems that we are having a great deal of unsettled weather this month. I know we are having far more rain that we need to get our gardens to grow, and now I cannot even put a tiller on the garden because of the mud. It does look like I have lost the seed that I have already planted, although the lettuce is up, and maybe some beets and brassicas.
Low Temperature: 43.5°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.73
Relative Humidity: 72%
Dew Point: 35.7°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: 44.2°F
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 44.2°F

The wind has been quite active ranging from the northwest to the south southwest and gusty. It definitely kept the black flies and mosquitoes at bay. As the afternoon has worn on it has become noticeably cooler. At least the sky has become mostly clear. The sun has been out most of the day, and it has been quite pleasant to get some wood cut and split for the wood boiler. Since that unit was installed, and the initial heating of the water accomplished, I have not heard my oil burner go on. That silence is beautiful. I am hopeful that tomorrow I will be able to mow my lawn, and cut up some more wood.
Now, on to the weather instruments. The weather stick is pointed slightly up, so to me it is indicating that the weather is still unsettled, but improving. The Min/Max thermometer and the weather station console are indicating improvement and clear skies. The newer remote station is indicating clouds or at least unsettled weather. I do not think we are out of the woods yet, and I suspect that the weather, although improved over the past week, will remain unsettled with a chance for some clouds, and maybe a scattered shower.
High Temperature: 60.4
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.7
Relative Humidity: 45%
Dew Point: 36.1
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: South Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 6.7
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 57.2°F

The overcast appears to be stratocumulus clouds, and they seem to be starting to break up. We had some rain overnight, and right now, it is raining again. We went for a ride yesterday morning, and many of the gardens that are usually prepared and partially planted by now have not been touched. So, mine is not the only one that is in trouble due to this very wet weather. With nine days to go in this month, we have had 5.78 inches of rain, and that leaves us less than three inches before we exceed our total for May 2005.
Obviously, with the rain falling outside the weather stick is pointed down. Two of the electronic instruments are indicating rain with deteriorating conditions. The weather station console is indicating mixed sun and clouds with deteriorating conditions. I think, from the conditions I see, that the pattern we have seen for past couple of days will continue for about the next twelve hours. The model that I looked at seems to indicate the same, and may even continue into tomorrow. Not Good!
Low Temperature: 42.9°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.42
Relative Humidity: 83%
Dew Point: 39.5°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: Northwest
Wind Speed (mph): 2.4
Wind Chill: 44.4°F
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.24
Current Temperature: 44.4°F

My forecast from this morning proved to be correct. Of course, I did not leave much to chance. As my wife said, the only things I did not predict were fog and snow. Oh well, being right is being right. This afternoon, around 15:00 hours, the rain started sporadically. We have now had almost a quarter of an inch, and it is still coming down here. I have looked at the models for the weather, and I have looked at the radar images. I am not really pleased by either of them. They are showing an awful lot of inclement weather on our doorstep.
Looking at my weather stick, I find it pointed slightly down. I think that means unsettled weather. OK, the Min/Max Thermometer and the remote weather station are indicating rain in the forecast. The weather station console is closer to the weather stick, and because I like the idea, better I will say that we will have some showers mixed with some unsettled weather. So, If you don't like the weather we have now just wait a few minutes and it will probably change. You might not like the change, but a few minutes later you might like the next change. I am no better than the folks that are paid to do this, but I think I do almost as well. I base my predictions on what I see, and what I feel in the atmosphere around me, and what all the data I have available to me shows. I get some right, and I get some wrong, but so do they!
High Temperature: 69.9
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.43
Relative Humidity: 81%
Dew Point: 46.7°F
Heat Index: 70.5°F
Wind Direction: Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.22
Current Temperature: 52.5°F

When I last stepped outside last night we were having a shower, but on checking this morning the rain gauge showed no additional precipitation. I guess it did not last long, and was not very heavy. When I first stepped out this morning it looked like the ground and grass were wet, but the seat on my lawnmower was dry, confirming my earlier statement. Right now, the sun is out (07:00) and the clouds seem to be breaking up. The animals went outside yesterday, and they appeared to enjoy the growing grass. They were fortunate in that they were not rained on, which made them even happier.
The weather instruments are showing a mix of forecasts. The Min/Max Thermometer is indicating improving conditions, but mixed sun and clouds. The remote station is indicating rain, and the weather station console is indicating improving conditions with sunshine. The weather stick is adding to the confusion by pointing slightly down. The best I can come up with for a forecast for today is unsettled conditions with periods of clouds, but some sun and a chance for showers. How is that for hedging my bets?
Low Temperature: 46.5°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.55
Relative Humidity: 78%
Dew Point: 43.5°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: West Northwest
Wind Speed (mph): 8.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Showers
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 50.7°F

There was a brief shower around 05:00 this morning, but then it stopped. The clouds have broken up and there has actually been some sunshine this afternoon. I was able to go down the road to a spot where there was some wood on the side of the road and pick it up. I looked at my garden and harvested some more asparagus. I also noted that the lettuce has come up along with the broccoli and cauliflower. I did start to step on the garden, but quickly withdrew because of the muddy conditions. If we can get two or three days without rain I might be able to get some work done to replant my corn and anything else that has not come up.
The weather instruments still have not come to full agreement on their prognostications. The Min/Max thermometer is saying rain, as is the remote weather station downstairs. My weather console indicates improving conditions with mixed sun and clouds. The weather stick is straight out indicating some unsettled weather, but pointed slightly up indicating improvement.
High Temperature: 69.0°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.43
Relative Humidity: 60%
Dew Point: 47.2°F
Heat Index: 76.9°F
Wind Direction: Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 6.2
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: None
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 60.9°F

Yes, we are having something new unique and different this morning, it is raining. It is the weekend, and it is raining. The prognosticators said it would be better. I am not sure what they meant, less rain?. We are definitely closing in on what was a record last year for the month of May, and we still have 11 days to go. I have seen one cornfield that was planted at about the same time mine was, and their corn is up. To date, mine is not yet making a showing. My garden keeps getting soggier and soggier. Our flower gardens are getting grassier and grassier. It is not possible to do the weeding necessary when the weather is like this. Gardening is supposed to be fun, and working in the rain, to me, is not fun, any more than riding a bicycle in the rain. I really need to do both, and I need some reasonably clear weather to do so. Listen to me whine.
I will copy the information on the instrumentation from yesterday, since that is the situation this morning. All the weather instrumentation is finally in agreement. The weather stick is pointed down. All three of the electronic instruments are indicating deteriorating conditions with rain for the next twelve hours or so. From the stratus clouds that are outside to the showers, I can see in the distance, I must agree with that assessment.
Low Temperature: 47.3°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.4
Relative Humidity: 92%
Dew Point: 45.6°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 3.3
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.09
Current Temperature: 47.8°F

Starting around 14:00 hours the thunderstorms began to roll through the area. Since then we have had almost 0.6 inches of rain, some of it falling at over 0.4 inches per hour. That is significant. Bart came unglued when the thunder started, and was looking for a place to hide. He got over it though, and is currently curled up at my feet. I looked at both the current composite radar and the national weather model, and we are not out of the woods yet. It appears that we have some more thunder and lightning to live through tonight, and some rain tomorrow morning, if the model is correct. It may dry out a bit tomorrow afternoon, and possibly on Sunday. We shall see, and I will believe it when I see it.
All the weather instrumentation is finally in agreement. The weather stick is pointed down. All three of the electronic instruments are indicating deteriorating conditions with rain for the next twelve hours or so. From the cumulonimbus clouds that are outside to the showers, I can see in the distance, I must agree with that assessment.
High Temperature: 55.0°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.38
Relative Humidity: 92%
Dew Point: 52.5°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: East
Wind Speed (mph): 7.3
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.59
Current Temperature: 54.8°F

This morning we are again greeted with some light rain and heavy fog. From my office, I cannot see the two hundred feet to my neighbor's driveway. I have been able to harvest a little more asparagus, and by tonight I should be able to harvest enough for a meal. I finally have peas up. I do not know if these are the ones I planted last fall or this spring. It really does not matter, what matters is that they are growing. The weeds, as I have noted, are growing also, and the garden is too wet to cultivate. I have heard a rumor that we may get a little relief from the rain over the weekend. That would be good if it happens. I am, like most of us, getting tired of all the foul weather.
I did get a pretty good laugh at my instrumentation this morning. My weather stick and one of the electronic instruments are calling for rain. The weather stick pointed down and the electronic instrument showing rain falling from the clouds. The weather console and min/max thermometer are both saying conditions will improve and the sun will shine. I don’t think I believe either set of instrumentation. My feeling is that we will have some unsettled weather with cloudy periods and an excellent chance for showers. I have looked at the radar images and the surface model map, and it appears that we will be getting into some rain soon, but the weekend should clear out. We may have a chance for some showers on Monday, according to the model I viewed.
Low Temperature: 49.1°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.6
Relative Humidity: 91%
Dew Point: 47.5°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: East Northeast
Wind Speed (mph): 2.2
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.02
Current Temperature: 49.1°F

Today we have had quite a mix of sun, clouds, showers and thundershowers. Just a couple of minutes ago the sun came out for a brief moment. It was then covered by some cumulonimbus clouds, in preparation for another shower somewhere in the area. We have already had another .32 inches of rain during the day today. These have definitely been hit or miss showers. I have not heard my oil burner run since Tuesday, and there is still a significant amount of wood in the outdoor wood boiler. My chain now goes from my woodpile to my wood boiler to the house and barn. That is not all bad.
Now to the weather instrumentation.
This is the first time that I have seen the weather stick agree with one instrument calling for rain. The other two do not agree with them or with each other. One is calling for sun. The weather console is calling for unsettled conditions, but improving. I almost think that one is correct. I see many cumulonimbus clouds around with a few patches of either blue sky or sun, and they seem to be moving through the area. The radar images confirm this for our area, but it also shows some rain moving toward us from western New York state and down into Pennsylvania and New Jersey. At this moment, I am not holding out a lot of hope for tomorrow or the weekend. Mother Nature will have her way, no matter what we want.
High Temperature: 66.0°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.51
Relative Humidity: 78%
Dew Point: 53.8°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: North Northeast
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.22
Current Temperature: 62.2°F

There has been sky juice falling overnight to the tune of a little over 0.3 inches. This puts us at almost five inches for the month. Ouch! For the last couple of days the low temperature has been above the temperature where wind chill can be calculated. I will therefore stop reporting wind-chill until and unless the temperature requires it. I will, in its place report the heat index based on the high temperature and the humidity at that time. Heat index, as I noted last year, is a measure of what the combination of temperature and humidity feels like to our skin. It is a health indicator, and tells us when we should drink more fluids and/or restrict our activities due to the potential for heat stress. The calculator that I am using starts at 80°F.
It does not look like I will be able to get onto the garden today, but if the weather clears I might get to the lawn. I do intend to get to the clean up of some wood around the place, if the weather allows it. The weather stick has its tip headed toward the ground indicating foul weather again. The three electronic instruments are indicating deteriorating weather with rain and clouds. That is why I am not very confident about getting outside to take care of some outdoor chores.
Low Temperature: 50.3°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.45
Relative Humidity: 91%
Dew Point: 48.4°F
Heat Index: N/A
Wind Direction: East
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.36
Current Temperature: 51.0°F

What a great day this was! My wood boiler is now cycling as it should, and that is a good thing. It is currently well stoked, and I do not know how long that will last. About 10:30 this morning one of my bicycling friends and I started out on a 25 mile ride. This was an absolutely fantastic day for it. It was not too hot, and there was cloud cover that kept the temperature a little lower. That also kept things from becoming oppressive. It took us a little over two hours to accomplish the ride. We both ride the Trek Across Maine, and the sad thing is what we did today would take us to the first rest stop on the first day of the Trek. Weather is certainly coming into play here for the training for that ride. I do hope to ride a great deal more before Father's Day Weekend. Just to note, in order to try to beat the leg cramps I took Bart for a 1 mile walk after lunch. We did get caught in the shower that gave us .02 inches of rain. Since then there have been a few breaks in the nimbostratus clouds which are currently making up the cloud cover.
The weather stick is calling for unsettled weather, which is an improvement from this morning. The other three instruments are indicating deteriorating conditions with a strong possibility for rain over the next twelve hours. Haven't we had enough rain? I really need to mow the lawn, and start collecting the wood that is lying around on my property.
High Temperature: 72.3°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.43
Relative Humidity: 77%
Dew Point: 52.8°F
Wind Direction: Northwest
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.02
Current Temperature: 59.9°F

A Good Example of Nimbostratus Clouds

When I first went out this morning to check my new boiler, it was still sprinkling. Now the sun is out and the sky is beginning to clear. Since May 1st, we have had almost 4.4 inches of rain, and that exceeds the amount we had last year on the same date, by a factor of 2. I know I am becoming repetitious, but this sunshine is badly needed. The gardens need it, but we also need it. It certainly raises the spirits when the weather is sunny and pleasant. Just to note, the temperature in the last 20 minutes has gone up almost 5°F. I can take this meteoric rise very easily. I will definitely be busy today collecting wood for the boiler. The estimates I have heard are that 8-12 cord of wood will be needed to keep the beast fed for a year. I am very glad that I have as much wood on my piece of land as I do.
I think it may take a while for the weather instrumentation to catch up with the weather today, but I have been wrong before, many times. The weather stick is still stuck in the down position indicating continued foul weather. The three electronic instruments are also stuck on cloudy and rainy weather. If the sun stays out, they should eventually show a positive indication for the weather. I certainly hope so. My lawn is now getting desperate, and Bart will soon be calling for the Bantu guides and his pith helmet before venturing forth.
Low Temperature: 49.4°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.42
Relative Humidity: 91%
Dew Point: 49.0°F
Wind Direction: South Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 4.9
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.04
Current Temperature: 59.9°F

Over the last twenty-four hours, we have had 0.75 inches of rain. That is quite a bit, and a whole lot more than what we needed. We are back in what I called last May the Dismals. We did have some sun on Saturday and Sunday, but it was not enough to do what needs to be done. Right now, I would not dare to try to put a cultivator or tiller on the garden to rework the areas that have not been planted. The implement and I would go straight to the bottom of the water table, or maybe the center of the earth. Talk about a repeat of last year. I did not believe it would happen two years in a row, but apparently, it is. We have now had almost five inches of rain for the month of May. It is too much already.
The weather instruments are not showing any relief at the moment. The weather stick is acting as if it has a weight at its tip pulling it down toward the ground. All three of the electronic instruments are calling for stormy weather, and I cannot argue with them at this time. I would certainly like to though.
High Temperature: 55.7°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.45
Relative Humidity: 89%
Dew Point: 51.1°F
Wind Direction: East Northeast
Wind Speed (mph): 0.6
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.71
Current Temperature: 54.3°F

This is just what we need, more rain and fog. The ground is already saturated, and the seed is beginning to rot, so pardon my lack of enthusiasm for the impending precipitation. The seed that I planted does not seem to be coming up, but the weeds seem to be doing just fine. I guess we need to learn how to prepare the weeds for food. Some of them even the goats won't eat. I will wait a few more days to see if any of the seed that I planted will come up. If it does not I will replant. There is still time before it will be too late to harvest a crop of corn or peas. The okra may be history. What started out as exhilaration in April is turning to disappointment now in May. There are two bright spots. Most of my tomatoes and peppers have germinated in the seed starters. They will be transplanted into cups to grow for moving outdoors.
The instrumentation is not providing information filled with optimism. The weather stick is seeking the ground it is pointed down so far. One of the electronic instruments is indicating cloudy weather, while the other two are indicating continued deterioration of the weather into storms and rain. Right now, the fog is allowing visibility of less than 100 yards, so if you need to be on the road, do be careful, the moose and deer are on the move.
Low Temperature: 47.8°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.83
Relative Humidity: 92%
Dew Point: 48.8°F
Wind Direction: East
Wind Speed (mph): 3.8
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain/Fog
Amount (inches): 0.04
Current Temperature: 48.0°F

After a delightful morning, the clouds have moved back in, and the rain has just started. I have been outside cutting up some willow that I had to cut off one of my large old willow trees. That wood is going to come in handy, since I will soon be using an outdoor wood boiler for heat. Who says that we, in Maine, cannot survive with a lot less of Exxon/Mobil's oil? Wood is renewable, and these things will burn any of it. They are energy efficient and with a spark arrester are less dangerous than an indoor wood furnace. What you are doing is heating water, and the water heats the house.
The weather instrumentation is showing some indecision. The weather stick is straight, indicating some fluctuation in the conditions. One of the electronic instruments is calling for rain. The second is indicating cloudy conditions, and the weather station console is indicating fluctuating conditions with deterioration of the weather. Unsettled is the only description I can come up with for the weather over the next twelve hours or so.
High Temperature: 63.1°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.08
Relative Humidity: 68%
Dew Point: 49.5°F
Wind Direction: East
Wind Speed (mph): 4.6
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 60.0°F

At 05:04, when the sun was starting to rise, the sky was red and partly cloudy. That is just a little too early for me to get out with the camera to photograph it. The portent is still there for some inclement weather. It does appear that we are going to have cloudy skies at the very least. The area of rain shown on the radar is reduced from what it was last night, which does not give much relief to the people who are experiencing the flooding in Southern Maine and New Hampshire. I hope that the dams that there is concern about hold.
There is some question about the weather prediction for the immediate vicinity. The weather stick is down, but that is normal. Two of the electronic instruments are predicting sunny weather, and the third is predicting deteriorating conditions with a mix of sun and clouds. With that kind of indecision and the red sky this morning, my guess is that we will have some unsettled weather for the next twelve hours or so. We will revisit it then and see where we are going.
Low Temperature: 39.0°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.20
Relative Humidity: 89%
Dew Point: 38.8°F
Wind Direction: South Southeast
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: 41.9°F
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 41.9°F

I checked the radar images during the day, and the rain stayed south of us. I understand that there are some flood watches in the southern part of the state and in Southern New Hampshire. With the exception of some occasional clouds, we had a very nice day today. As I suspected this morning the temperature made it almost to 70° this afternoon. The sunshine was delightful, and the breezes, when there were some, kept the black flies at bay. We went out this afternoon, and this is late, so I am going to call it a night.
The weather stick is just slightly elevated, so I would expect the weather to be changing in a positive direction. The other three instruments are being a bit more positive, and are calling for sunny weather for the next twelve hours or so. I certainly hope they are correct.
High Temperature: 69.4°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.23
Relative Humidity: 78%
Dew Point: 37.7°F
Wind Direction: East Southeast
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: 44.4°F
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 44.4°F

Happy Mother's Day! There are just a few clouds scattered across the very red sky this morning. By the time I got my coffee and got up to the camera, the sun was already up, and I did not get to photograph the sunrise. That was at about 05:15. The sun keeps rising earlier and earlier. That will change in about five weeks. With the temperature starting in the mid-forties and the sun shining, I would not be surprised to see the temperatures rise into the range of 70°. Maybe we will get a little bit of drying so the lawn can be mowed and the garden cultivated over the next several days. I know, I can be such an optimist sometime.
The weather stick is pointed slightly down, so it may be indicating some fluctuation, and a slight deteriorating weather condition. That is in direct opposition to the three electronic instruments. They are all indicating sunny weather with improving conditions. If by that, they mean that the sky will clear completely and the temperatures warm significantly I would love to agree with that. There is still a significant amount of rain showing up on the radar south of Portland, Maine, but our skies have cleared and the sun is shining brightly.
Low Temperature: 44.0°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.22
Relative Humidity: 85%
Dew Point: 40.0°F
Wind Direction: North
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: 44.2°F
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 44.2°F

We only had a little bit more rain this morning, and then the sun came out. It did get to be partly cloudy, and it did warm up a little bit. It actually got nice enough that I went fishing, and the net result is shown below, a very nice and very tasty Rainbow Trout. It has been cooked and eaten.
The other photograph is of an Amaryllis that has been twice saved from the dump. It was given as a gift to my wife for Christmas about two years ago. She never did anything with it, and was about to throw it away. I salvaged it, watered it and set it to grow. It put forth some beautiful leaves, but no flower. My wife was about to send it to the dump again. I salvaged it, and put it in a closet where the leaves died back. About two weeks ago my wife found it in the closet with a flower bud and leaves growing. The bud and leaves were white because they had no light. We put it in the light and within a few days, the bud and leaves turned green. The result is shown below, just in time for Mother's Day.
When I entitled this, I was correct. I said we would get some more rain, as did the weather stick. Well, the electronic instruments got it right, although it did not get to clear skies, the rain did stop, and we did have some periods of sun. The weather stick this evening is saying fluctuating weather, and the electronic instruments are calling for some sunny or at least clear weather overnight. I guess since they made a fool of me I will go with what they are saying. I guess the only way we will know for sure it to see what happens tomorrow. Have a Happy Mother's Day.
High Temperature: 64.9°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.21
Relative Humidity: 65%
Dew Point: 43.2°F
Wind Direction: Southeast
Wind Speed (mph): 5.8
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.02
Current Temperature: 54.8°F

Tasty, Tasty

Happy Mother's Day

Right now, (8:45) it is not raining. That does not mean we are going to have clear or even partly cloudy skies. Everything is getting green including my garden spot. I think I am beginning to develop gills and webbing between my toes and fingers. We are beginning to breathe water at relative humidities of 90% and greater. I am trying to make some jokes, in case you have not noticed. My lawn/pond is in need of mowing, and I am on the top of a hill. I can just imagine what it is like in lower lying areas. My bog has filled up again.
The weather instruments must be getting some special signals from out of the ether. One is predicting sun, and the other two are predicting fluctuating weather with an improving tendency. The weather stick is the only one that seems to have it right, pointing down at almost a 90° angle. I think I will go with that and suspect that we will have a bit more rain before this system moves out.
Low Temperature: 45.5
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.18
Relative Humidity: 90%
Dew Point: 43.8
Wind Direction: North Northeast
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.63
Current Temperature: 46.5°F

This evening we have had a lot of rain. In fact, for the last 24 hours we have had 1.04 inches of rain. This is getting more and more reminiscent of last May. Last May by the 12th we had had 1.55 inches of rain, so we are a little more than an inch ahead of last year at 2.63 inches of rain for the month to date. I heard some prognostications this morning saying that the weekend is supposed to yield some sunny weather, but at this point, I will believe it when I see it. As I have been saying, our gardens now require some sun if they are going to produce anything other than garlic and asparagus.
Now on to the instrumental analysis of the weather. The weather stick is down, and it is wet, so it is raining, and it thinks it will be doing that for a while. The other three instruments are flying in the face of what is going on outside. They are all showing a mix of sun and clouds indicating some fluctuation in the weather and an improving tendency. I suspect that it is because of the improvement in the barometric pressure. I have looked at the regional radar images, and they still show a large quantity of rain headed our way.
High Temperature: 52.1°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.1
Relative Humidity: 92%
Dew Point: 47.5°F
Wind Direction: East
Wind Speed (mph): 7.1
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.72
Current Temperature: 49.8°F

I now have enough data to look back in time. Last year on this date, the temperatures were about the same as they are this morning. The weather was also showery. We have had about 0.2 inches more rain than we did last year on the same date. At least we have not had as wet a month as we did last year. As I have been saying for the last few days, we need some sun and warm weather before the seed begins to rot in the ground, and the weeds take over. At least the temperatures have begun to warm, and we need that as well in order for the seed to germinate. As I look out of my windows, it does not appear that the rain is going to stop very soon. I looked at the radar images, and they show rain moving west from the coast, some of it quite heavy.
The two electronic instruments that were predicting improving weather yesterday evening are still predicting improving weather. The weather station console and the weather stick are predicting a continuation of the weather we have now. Because I can see the rain falling outside and the overcast sky, I tend to discount the former and believe the latter. My guess is that we will have this weather for at least the next twelve hours.
Low Temperature: 47.4°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.02
Relative Humidity: 93%
Dew Point: 45.5°F
Wind Direction: Northeast
Wind Speed (mph): 1.5
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.32
Current Temperature: 47.4°F

The rain has finally stopped for the moment, but it is still overcast. The temperature has changed very little from this morning's low. The relative humidity has remained high making it feel all the more dismal. As you can see, the garlic that I planted last fall is doing just fine. The rest of the garden needs the touch of the cultivator to keep the weeds under control, but there is no way I can walk on it until we have a day or so of dry weather. I can live in hope. I should also note that I have some asparagus that is ready to harvest, and I can get to that.
Two of my electronic instruments are thinking that the clouds will dissipate and we will have a positive change in the weather. My weather station console says it is going to continue to rain, and so does the weather stick. When I went out to take the pictures there was still a little rain falling, so I guess I will go with the weather station and the weather stick. Sorry folks, but I think the rain will continue, at least over night.

The Garlic is Doing Fine

The Rest of the Garden is in Limbo

It is starting out to be a dismal day, with rain and fog the predominant features. The visibility at ground level is only a couple of hundred yards at the most. Right now, we are nearing an inch and a half of rain for the month of May. We will only need a little bit more spread over the next three weeks to have our gardens doing very well. If we get a lot more rain, we will have gardens like last year with seed rotting in the ground and very few vegetables to show for our efforts. Just to note, my tomatoes and peppers are coming up in their starter boxes. I did mow the lawn on Saturday, and it needs it again only five days later. I am beginning to see some green in the garden, and it is not the seed I have planted. The rain needs to stop so I can get the cultivator out there, and make sure the weeds do not get ahead of the plants I want to grow.
The weather stick is pointed at the ground indicating a continuation of the current weather. Two of the electronic instruments are indicating rain continuing, and the third is showing clouds. This does not portend well for the garden. We do need some sun, and the situation is becoming desperate. A photographic update should be available this afternoon.
Low Temperature: 53.7°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.96
Relative Humidity: 92%
Dew Point: 52.3°F
Wind Direction: East
Wind Speed (mph): 0.8
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain/Fog
Amount (inches): 0.26
Current Temperature: 54.6°F

There have been showers off and on for most of the day. We had a rainfall rate of 0.22 inches per hour at one point early this morning. We are closing in on a half an inch of rain for the day. The temperature has barely made it into the mid-fifties today, and with the high relative humidity, it has been quite raw. It is still overcast, so I would not expect this spell of weather to leave very quickly. Right now, a bit of sun and warm temperatures would do our gardens a great deal of good.
The weather stick is down, the electronic instruments are calling for some more rain, and from my observations, I would agree with that.
High Temperature: 54.6°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.99
Relative Humidity: 86%
Dew Point: 50.5°F
Wind Direction: Northeast
Wind Speed (mph): 0.6
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.12
Current Temperature: 54.6°F

Overnight we have had some rain. Right now, it has stopped, but it is still overcast. The blanket of clouds did just what a blanket is supposed to do, it kept the temperature from falling very far. We are currently in the mid-forties and the humidity is high enough that we might expect some more rain before the day is over.
All four of the weather indicators are saying that we will have more weather that is inclement. It is not really inclement since we do need the rain for quelling the fire danger, and helping the gardens to grow. The only thing inclement about it is that we cannot do things outside that we might like to do.
Low Temperature: 44.2°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.00
Relative Humidity: 89%
Dew Point: 40.6°F
Wind Direction: North Northwest
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.26
Current Temperature: 45.1°F

A red sky this morning, altostratus clouds this afternoon and an overcast sky is what I have observed today. There seems to be some movement toward a storm overnight. Right now, the temperature is beginning to bounce up and down as the clouds pass between the sun and us. The wind has picked up this afternoon and has varied from the north-northwest to the east-southeast. It is blowing with some force as well.
The weather stick has no clue, and is pointed up, but that is meaningless I think. Two of the electronic instruments are calling for a storm, and the third is predicting deteriorating conditions with clouds. If we add to these instruments the forecast from this morning, we are probably in for some rain overnight.
High Temperature: 71.9°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.01
Relative Humidity: 29%
Dew Point: 36.9°F
Wind Direction: East
Wind Speed (mph): 12.9
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: None
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 72.3°F

The temperature did not quite reach the freezing mark, but it only missed it by one degree. That temperature is already on the rise under the influence of the morning sun. There was plenty of dew on the grass, but no real precipitation. If I had moved a little faster, I could have taken a photo of an interesting sunrise with red sky, clouds and all. From with I saw, this was a weather maker. Those high thin clouds of yesterday afternoon may well have portended the change that the instrumentation predicted.
Speaking of the instrumentation, the weather stick is straight or pointing just slightly up, indicating a change in our weather. All three of the electronic instruments are calling for mixed or fluctuating/mixed sun and clouds conditions with a negative tendency. Since the sun is already dodging in and out of the clouds I tend to agree with that assessment.
Low Temperature: 33.0°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.16
Relative Humidity: 82%
Dew Point: 28.6°F
Wind Direction: East Northeast
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: 33.6°F
Precipitation: None
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 33.6°F

The barometric pressure is falling and the clouds are gathering. Right now the overcast is being caused by cirrostratus clouds which allow considerable sunlight through, but give a "milky" appearance to the sky, There was red in the sky this morning as well, not that that means anything. The wind is currently blowing out of the south southeast, at variable speeds. The leaves are out on the trees, and more of the flowers are blooming. We are definitely having a spring.
The weather stick is pointed up, for whatever that means. All the electronic instruments are taking the falling barometric pressure to heart and calling for a change in the weather with a deteriorating tendency. This is in agreement with NOAA, which is showing a significant probability of rain for tonight and tomorrow.
High Temperature: 70.8°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.12
Relative Humidity: 28%
Dew Point: 34.8°F
Wind Direction: South Southeast
Wind Speed (mph): 8.7
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: None
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 69.6°F

According to most gardening handbooks our last frost date is May 15th, so a frost this morning is not outside our climate parameters. It did remain below freezing from 02;44 until 05:56 this morning which should not hurt the seed that is in the ground or vegetables like asparagus that may be up and growing. There are a few cirrus or cirrocumulus clouds in the sky this morning, and they may portend some problems for us later today or tomorrow. The barometer is high and still rising. There was a red hue to the sky this morning just before the sun came up, another portent of stormy weather to come.
The weather stick has taken up its usual morning stance which is straight or pointed down, so that does not have much prediction value. The three electronic instruments are all showing a positive tendency with sunny weather predicted. This should be a nice day, based on that information.
Low Temperature: 29.8°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.20
Relative Humidity: 81%
Dew Point: 25.2°F
Wind Direction: South
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: 30.7°F
Precipitation: None
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 36.6°F

This was a picture perfect spring day. There was some wind which helped keep the insects at bay, and the temperatures were moderate topping out in the low seventies. You could do almost any activity outside and be comfortable. I did a little fence repair, and a little bit of picking up of sticks around the yard. I also did a little fishing today without success. Sooner or later, I should hit the right combination of lure, time and technique. I can see the fish; I just have not given them the right lure at the right time.
All four of my weather prognosticators are calling for clear sunny weather, and I cannot add anything to that.
High Temperature: 70.3°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.12
Relative Humidity: 38%
Dew Point: 19.4°F
Wind Direction: Northwest
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: 43.5°F
Precipitation: None
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 43.5°F

By the time I got outside this morning at a little bit after 05:00 AM, there was not a star to be seen. This was not due to overcast, but light. As you can see from the photo below, the sun was rising, and there was no longer enough dark to permit the stars to be seen. There are no clouds in the sky, and this was a beautiful red sunrise. The cold front has passed through, and the temperatures are in the mid to upper thirties. The barometer is up over 29.90 in. Hg and rising.
The weather stick is pointed up, and all the electronic instruments are predicting a sunny day with a positive tendency. I cannot fly in the face of the instrumentation. When they all agree it indicates that they are probably right. I will also suggest that it should be a nice day.
Low Temperature: 37.4°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.94
Relative Humidity: 62%
Dew Point: 25.7°F
Wind Direction: West
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: 37.5°F
Precipitation: None
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 37.5°F

Red Sky At 05:10 AM 07 May 2006

It does appear that we have some thundershowers in our near future. The sky to the west is as dark as the inside of a pocket. It appears that there is rain falling from some of those clouds as well. We have had some minor showers with no accumulation of precipitation this afternoon. It really has been a delightful day, and this afternoon I did get the first lawn mowing done for the season. At least it was not like mowing a swamp like it was last May.
With all the sun today, I had visions of the instrumentation showing improving conditions and sunny weather predicted. Instead, I find deteriorating conditions with a prediction of rain. The weather stick however is indicating fair weather since it is pointed up. From the look of the sky, I would say the conditions are going to deteriorate and we will have some rain.
High Temperature: 78.4°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.61
Relative Humidity: 35%
Dew Point: 41.7°F
Wind Direction: Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 6.2
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Showers
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 70.8°F

The sun created a red sky this morning, and there were some stratocumulus (mares' tails and mackerel scales) clouds in evidence. It is still warm for the month of May, and I suspect it will get warmer before the afternoon is over. The relative humidity is also more like summer than early May.
The various weather indicators seem to be calling for "fluctuating" weather but some disagreement as to the tendency. My electronic weather stations are all saying that we will have cloudy weather or mixed sun and clouds. Two of them say the tendency is to deteriorate and one that conditions will improve. The weather stick is straight out indicating a change. The indicator that is tipping the balance for me is the partly cloudy sky with the mares' tails and mackerel scales indicating some rain in the near future. The good thing about rain every 3-4 days is that it helps to establish the gardens and reduce the fire danger.
Low Temperature: 42.6°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.71
Relative Humidity: 84%
Dew Point: 38.4°F
Wind Direction: South Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: 42.9°F
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 42.9°F

As we drove into Farmington this morning, I was impressed by the amount of haze on the distant hills. It was almost like a July morning rather that May. There have been clouds around all day, but they have not had much effect on the temperature which topped out at 85°F. The temperature has started to fall, and is now at almost 79°F. The lawn is now in need of mowing, and I will get to that tomorrow if it does not rain. There is an onion up from last year, and almost all the garlic is doing well. There is asparagus up, but not quite ready for harvest. Maybe by the end of the weekend there will be some.
There is no agreement among my instruments. One is calling for rain, one for clouds, one for mixed sun and clouds, and the weather stick for fair weather. I am not even going to try to call this one at all. We will just have to wait and see what happens.
So far, the new kids are doing fine.
High Temperature: 85.1°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.59
Relative Humidity: 25%
Dew Point: 41.6°F
Wind Direction: Northwest
Wind Speed (mph): 2.6
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 80.7°F

This must be summer, and not spring. The temperature is starting in the fifties with partly cloudy skies and a high relative humidity. The sun is up, but barely visible due to the puffy cumulus clouds. These do not seem to be building into a storm, but rather are the remnants of storms that I noted in Western New York yesterday evening. They seem to be moving quickly leaving us with clear skies.
The promised picture of our new kids is included below.
The electronic instrumentation is calling for a storm, and the weather stick is indicating continued foul weather. I think I may fly in the face of all these predictions, and call for probable unsettled weather with a low probability of showers.
Low Temperature: 51.6°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.65
Relative Humidity: 88%
Dew Point: 48.4°F
Wind Direction: West Southwest
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 52.1°F

The New Kids "Lily and James"

This has been a nice day despite the intermittent sun and clouds. The temperature has been the predominant feature, rising into the upper seventies here. Right now, the sun is playing peek-a-boo, and the temperature is responding, as the sun gets brighter. The temperature, which had started to fall, is rising again, and by the time I post this it may be above the initial high. The winds have been pleasant, ranging from the west-southwest to the north northwest.
Today has been significant for another reason; we now have two new kids by surprise. Minerva decided to kid out overnight, and has had a little brown buck and a little black doe. Pictures will probably follow tomorrow.
We are back into disagreement between the old technology and the new. The weather stick is pointed up, and we all know what that means. The three electronic instruments are indicating a storm alert, and that is self-explanatory. Who will we believe at this point? There are some storms in the area of western New York, according to NEXRAD composite radar, but they are a bit far off to say they will affect our weather in the near future. Since the clouds, here appear to be broken and moving I have a tendency to suggest that we will have some unsettled weather with a chance for some showers, but no storm like the last couple of days. That is my guess and I am sticking to it.
High Temperature: 84.3°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.68
Relative Humidity: 49%
Dew Point: 54.0°F
Wind Direction: North Northwest
Wind Speed (mph): 4.4
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Dry
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 74.4°F

For the first time in three days, the sun was visible at sunrise. The clouds are breaking up, but with a relative humidity of 91%, there is some ground fog in the area. That should burn off quickly leaving us with a dry day and warm temperatures. This should be of great help in causing the germination of the seeds planted in the garden. I did not get all the tomatoes planted last night, but I certainly will this morning. The lawn, along with the dandelions is starting to grow apace. That means that the mower needs to be gotten out to prepare to do battle with the green monster. I look forward to the harvesting of fresh vegetables in the near future, certainly by the end of June.
The weather stick is currently pointed down, but I suspect that will change. It just takes a while before it catches up with what is actually happening. The three electronic instruments are still calling for cloudy weather with a tendency to deteriorate. I am not sure I believe that based on what I see in the sky overhead. The barometer is rising at this point, and is up .01 in. Hg since I stared to compose this commentary.
Low Temperature: 47.6°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.82
Relative Humidity: 91%
Dew Point: 45.2°F
Wind Direction: Northwest
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Fog
Amount (inches): 0.00
Current Temperature: 48.0°F

We were threatened with temperatures in the mid-forties today, but we are actually in the mid-fifties. That is nice. The roads are dry now, and the rain has ceased for the moment. I would not dare walk on the garden right now, because I would leave footprints eight or ten inches deep. That would not be good at all. Speaking of the garden, the peppers have been planted, and the tomatoes will be before the end of the day today. Yes, they are inside in grow boxes. They will not go outside until at least the middle of May, and then only during the day. I will not put them outside until Memorial Day or even a week after that. I have learned that plants that are hit with frost do not do very well during the rest of the season.
I can hardly believe my eyes. The sun has broken through the clouds, and is in the process of driving the temperature up. I will need to wait a few minutes before I post this in order to allow the temperature to get as high as it can. The instruments will not change because of that so I will report their condition. The weather stick is down indicating a continuation of this weather. Two of the electronic instruments are calling for the rainy weather to continue, and the third indicates that we will have at least cloudy weather. I just checked the radar, and it appears that Connecticut and Massachusetts are getting rain coming in from the east, but we nave nothing east of us. We may get some more rain if the low continues east and the rain shield follows around and comes to us from the west, but I am guessing like everyone else.
High Temperature: 58.2°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.91
Relative Humidity: 87%
Dew Point: 51.0°F
Wind Direction: North
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.08
Current Temperature: 55.9°F

They Are Finally Fully Open

Overnight we had a couple of tenths of an inch of rain bringing our total for this storm system to 0.77 inches of rain. It is still misting, but we are not having the rain as we did yesterday morning. Our low temperature since yesterday afternoon's commentary occurred around 18:00 hours, and since then it has changed very little. There does not appear to be any rapid change in store for us, and we can probably look forward to this system staying in place for today. I checked the radar image, and I did not see the showers moving onshore as they did yesterday morning. I did hear one of the prognosticators say that there was some hope for sunny breaks tomorrow, and we can live in hope.
The weather stick is pointed down, and that is no big surprise. One of the electronic instruments is indicating a cloudy day, and the other two are indicating rain in our future. When I was outside a little while ago it was almost raining, and with a 91% relative humidity that is no surprise either. At least the fire danger has been quelled for the moment.
Low Temperature: 44.9°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 29.94
Relative Humidity: 91%
Dew Point: 43.2°F
Wind Direction: North Northwest
Wind Speed (mph): 0.0
Wind Chill: N/A
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.20
Current Temperature: 45.6°F

The rain has slacked off to just a drizzle at this point. We have had a total of 0.57 inches of rain so far, and there appears to be some fog moving into the area. It has still been quite cool, or at least it feels that way because of the dampness, and with a relative humidity of 88% it is damp. The winds have been variable both in speed and direction ranging from North northeast to east southeast, and from calm to around 8 miles per hour. This has basically been a dismal day.
The weather stick is pointed straight down indicating that this weather will continue. All three electronic instruments agree with that assessment, and so do I. The ground right now is pretty well soaked, and that should reduce the fire danger we have been living with for the last few days. It does go without saying that the animals showed no desire to cavort outside today. I left the outside door open, and they walked right past it on their way back to their stalls. Even goats are not foolish when it comes to being outside in the rain. They do appreciate a dry barn.
I was going to include another photo of the Daffodils fully open, but with the cool weather and lack of sun they are not open any more this afternoon than they were this morning. Oh well, maybe tomorrow they will open some more.
High Temperature: 45.6°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.01
Relative Humidity: 87%
Dew Point: 42.0°F
Wind Direction: North Northeast
Wind Speed (mph): 6.9
Wind Chill: 38.9°F
Precipitation: Rain
Amount (inches): 0.41
Current Temperature: 45.6°F

Just a note on yesterday, the barometer finally topped out at 30.52 in. Hg, and since I have been keeping these records that is a record. The promised rain has finally arrived, and it is a gentle soaking rain here. The barometer is still quite high at over 30.1 in. Hg. Looking out my north window toward the carriage house, the rain is dripping, but it is not like a waterfall coming off the roof. This should be excellent for the parts of the garden that have been planted.
Speaking of the garden, the asparagus is up, and should be capable of being harvested soon. It is still cool, so I am pleased that I have not planted the beans, cucurbits or potatoes yet. For those of you who are wondering, cucurbits encompass all the cucumbers, squashes, pumpkins and melons.
All of the instrumentation, including the weather stick are indicating deteriorating weather with some sort of storm. Since I have walked with Bart already I do concur with that assessment.
Today is an anniversary of sorts. One year ago I began keeping these records. It is possible to go back and look at the early commentaries (they began on May 16th, 2005), and see how much they have changed. Today there is more data, and the commentaries are longer and more complete.
Low Temperature: 41.5°F
Barometric Pressure (in.Hg): 30.15
Relative Humidity: 86%
Dew Point: 37.6°F
Wind Direction: Northeast
Wind Speed (mph): 4.2
Wind Chill: