Expect warmer and drier conditions outside of Florida and Southeast Coast

Weather trends

Casual Living Staff -- Casual Living, 11/8/2010 4:40:27 AM

Last October was one of the five wettest in the past 114 years. It also was the second coldest in 33 years for the United States as a whole.
Four named storms are expected in October with an elevated risk for impact from Florida and the Southeast Coast to North Carolina.

     Those cold and rainy conditions brought an abrupt end to the outdoor living category season as 84% of the country trended colder than normal and all regions trended wetter than October 2008. The nation also experienced more snow than in more than 20 years, which was yet another negative for outdoor categories.
     This month is projected to be warmer for 90% and drier for 80% of the United States, which is exceptional news for extending the outdoor living season and its product categories.

     The exception will be across Florida, where enhanced tropical activity will bring rainy and cooler conditions. In fact, four named storms are expected in October with an elevated risk for impact from Florida and the Southeast Coast to North Carolina.
     Elsewhere, this October will provide an extended season for clearance of outdoor products, including patio furniture and grilling supplies. Snowfall should be less than a year ago, which will also benefit outdoor categories.