2/15/2001 Message of the Day
Christopher Duvall, Rutgers University Meteorologist
cduvall@rci.rutgers.edu

Precipitation:

Howdy! Most portions of the U.S. have a good chance for some form of light precipitation today, except the Southwest and Florida. The band of heaviest rain will be located along a line running from northeastern Texas (or "saxeT" for Univ. of Oklahoma fans) through West Virginia. Montana may see some heavy snow blowing around, too.

Temperature:

This morning, temperatures should be below freezing for most areas north of a line connecting New York City to Chicago and over to Denver, Phoenix, and San Diego. Clouds and the movement of colder air coming from Canada will combine to limit the sun's effect on the temperatures in many areas. Florida however will likely see 80 deg. F as the fog dissipates by lunchtime.

Challenge Questions:

Why is there such a large temperature difference between Florida and a northern state, like Minnesota? (hint: there are several reasons that make up this answer) Are the temperatures so different between these two states in the summer, too? Which do you think has a greater range in temperature during the year, Minnesota or Florida? Why?

CD 2/15/2001