ROCHESTER, N.Y. – There is no reason to complain, but it is clear that meteorologists have been facing a different kind of challenge recently. Not in predicting storm systems or tracking severe weather, but in finding new ways to describe the pleasant conditions across the region.
For two consecutive weeks, the weather in Western New York has been characterized by abundant sunshine, mild temperatures, and a lack of precipitation. The last significant rainfall in Rochester occurred nearly two weeks ago. The month of September has been especially dry, and with a moderate drought now in effect, local farmers are likely feeling the impact of this extended dry period.
The cause of this prolonged stretch of stable weather is a well-known meteorological pattern known as the omega block. Under typical conditions, the jet stream flows from west to east across the country. However, in an omega block scenario, the upper-level winds shift into a more north-to-south orientation. This configuration disrupts the normal movement of weather systems, essentially blocking their eastward progression. The pattern is named for its resemblance to the Greek letter omega and is renowned for producing stagnant and repetitive weather over an extended period.
While some regions across the country are experiencing cool and rainy conditions as a result of this pattern, Western New York remains in a fortunate position of enjoying calm, dry, and sunny weather day after day.
Ultimately, it comes down to being in the right place at the right time.
The post First Alert Weather In-Depth: Dry days and clear skies due to the omega block effect appeared first on WHEC.com.
