2008 off to a wet start

May 12, 2008 11:37 am

— Listen To The Story
Staff Report
SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois State Water Survey has recorded the third wettest January through April since 1895, according to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
April precipitation was recorded at 4.7 inches, which is 23 percent above the average for the month. Combined with the wet conditions in January, February and March, the year-to-date total is 17.1 inches. Only 1950 and 1898 were wetter with 18.2 and 17.2 inches, respectively.
In addition, this year is the second-wettest December through April, with 21.2 inches, and the wettest February through April, at 14.3 inches, since statewide records began in 1895.
“The significantly above-average precipitation has caused widespread flooding of rivers and streams at times this winter and spring,” state climatologist Jim Angel of the Illinois State Water Survey said. “Currently, wet soils and the lack of extended periods of warm, dry conditions have been blamed for planting delays throughout the state.”
Angel said the forecast indicates that planting delays due to wet weather will continue in May.
April statewide temperatures averaged 51.4 degrees, which is 0.9 degrees below average. The pattern of below-average temperatures started in February.
National Weather Service forecasts indicate cooler, wetter conditions will prevail in the state for the next few weeks. May is predicted to have an increased chance of above-average precipitation and below-average temperatures.