September 90s

The forecast high for the Rockford area today is 90°. A warm front passing through the area combined with strong winds from the south and minimal cloud cover are all contributing to the surge in heat. There has been some cooling this morning because of thunderstorms and cloud cover, so temperatures could be held back a bit this afternoon if the clouds hold together longer than expected. Highs in the 90s are more likely to the south and west of Rockford with heat index values in the mid and upper 90s.

But how likely are 90s in September? Looking back at past climate data, you can see that last year we had four 90 degree days. That number decreases every year we go back. In 2009, we saw no 90 degree days in September. While it's not extremely likely, it does happen occasionally.

We still could still hit 90 degrees here in Rockford on Thursday, but we will have to keep an eye on the clouds to see how long they hold together. Either way it will still be a humid day. Dew points in the low 70's will make for a sticky afternoon. The heat doesn't last long, though, as we drop into the 70's for the rest of the week! -KC