Volume 15 Number 3.1 MARCH 12, 2002

A very strong cold front passed through on the 2^nd bringing arctic air and record cold temperatures to the state. Although there was a slight rebound from the previous cold front that passed through the weekend before, this system caused temperatures to plummet. The gradient, or variation of temperatures across the state, ranged from the twenties to thirties in the Panhandle, to seventies and low eighties on the Gulf coast. The front brought some precipitation to the state, with Longview reporting 1.14 inches, but most other areas reported a trace to less than half-an-inch. Very cold arctic air was felt on the 3^rd with low temperatures below freezing for much of the state. College Station recorded an all-time record low for March with 16F.

Temperatures began to slowly rebound during the week prior to another front, not as strong as the previous one, which passed through the state over the weekend of the 9^th. Little precipitation fell with this front again, but winds were very strong. With little rainfall over the state, drought may be on the minds of some. According to the Palmer drought severity index, the Trans Pecos and Lower Valley are considered in a moderate drought condition.

Andrew Odins (Graduate Assistant)

Forecast for the Week

For the week of March 10: The forecast is calling for warmer temperatures during the middle and latter parts of the week. There will be a slight chance of showers on Friday and Saturday as a front approaches the state. High temperatures will be near to slightly above normal, and low temperatures will be above normal.

(Forecast material obtained from the National Weather Service)

Dr. John Nielsen-Gammon (State Climatologist)

Andrew Odins (Graduate Assistant)