Following Warm Start, This Month Ushers in Cooler, Drier Conditions

Casual Living Staff -- Casual Living, 10/1/2012 2:00:00 AM

Last October, temperatures Trended cooler than the year prior, but it was still the fourth warmest October in more than 20 years. The first half of the month was dominated by milder weather, but cooler weather arrived during the second half of October 2011 with a noticeable rush of cold air in the East during the final week. An unusual, early season snowstorm slammed the Northeast and dumped snow from Virginia to Maine toward the end of the month.
     This October will begin with warmer weather on both the East and West Coasts, but colder trends will spread over much of the nation thereafter. Overall, October 2012 will be cooler than last year, except in the Southeast where warmer weather will benefit outdoor categories. Drier trends will extend across much of the West and the Northeast which will benefit seasonal outdoor products like Halloween decorations. The wettest areas will be across the center of the nation with chances for isolated severe weather in the South Central states, especially during the middle of the month.