Last June was slightly cooler than the year prior but warmer than average across the nation. The South Central and Southeastern regions had their hottest June in 10 years while the Northeast had its warmest retail June in five years. A heat wave in the East drove exceptional demand for hot weather categories at the beginning of the month and into Father's Day weekend. However, heavy rainfall in the Midwest resulted in the worst river flooding in 100 years during the first two weeks of the month.

This month's weather will trend cooler across the East and South, but warmer in the Northwest. Much drier weather in the Midwest will be beneficial, but the Southeast will unfortunately experience wetter conditions.

Cool weather in June after a warm spring is a signal for weaker demand for hot weather outdoor categories such as outdoor furniture, barbecue grills and garden decor products.

Although the week prior to July 4th trends warmer for all but the West, wet weather may dampen store traffic and sales a bit.

610-807-3586, jgrum@wxtrends.com, www.wxtrends.com