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As I sit here writing this blog post listening to another relaxing Florida storm (and this one at 11:45 pm at night so that's not what most of us would consider our "normal" summer shower) it certainly begs the question, "What's with all the rain?" But have we really had more rain than usual? MJ Carnevale with the City of Winter Haven Natural Resources division put together some general information about 2015 rainfall: "We have received about 39” of rainfall since January 1, 2015. On average, annual rainfall is about 38.5” by the end of August. While our average rainfall is pretty consistent, you will notice the distribution of that rainfall in some months varies significantly from the average. This has resulted in a greater “Net Accumulation” of rainfall, which accounts for evapotranspiration (Evaporation + Transpiration) in months then we have seen in previous years. This can be seen in the second graph below.   The takeaway message from this is that contrary to anecdotal tales, we have not had “massive amounts of rain” this year. What we have had are several months that fluctuated within a relatively normal range and a few other months that where a little wetter than normal. Two years of these types of rainfall patterns have provided us with wetter than average conditions. Lake level data supports this as well, we are a little wet for this time of year on average. Current conditions might not be within an individual's frame of reference, but that does not mean they are not “normal”. I think it is important to note the years associated with the extremes and consider how those relate to most individual’s frame of reference."
1 Comment
Sharon Campo
7/23/2017 07:45:19 am
I googled Florida's constant rains and saw your post. I'm Tampa born and raised. I read your comments. I guess the rain is normal but the thunder and threat of rain is more frequent. I have a puppy that shakes and is frightened by the thunder and lightening. Thank you for explaining the current conditions! Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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