Are we falling behind on precipitation for the year?

(COLORADO SPRINGS) — This year has been a bit odd when it comes to our rainfall. The patterns we typically see with moisture have been largely reversed or delayed.

On average, Colorado Springs gets 15.9 inches of precipitation per year. Each month comes with its own climatology and unique characteristics. For example, typically we are much drier in June and see a lot more moisture in July.

So far this year, the Springs has recorded nearly 11 inches of rainfall which puts the area slightly ahead of schedule. That may seem a bit odd to you if you’re familiar with Colorado weather; the reason being that our summer months haven’t had nearly as much rain as usual.

January through April – historically, some of our drier months – featured precipitation totals that were all above climatological average. Roughly one third of our expected annual rainfall occurred within the first several months of the year.

On the other hand, May through July – historically, our wettest months – featured values that were all below normal. June in particular was about one and a half inches below average with the climatological average at 2.27 inches for the month.

Reflecting back on just last year, Colorado Springs broke several records for the month of June and was in the top five years for highest annual precipitation. 2023 rounded out with over 25 inches of rain. As impressive as that number is for our Colorado climate, it still came nowhere near the 27.58 inches back in 1999.

If you’re curious what the lowest amount of precipitation Colorado Springs has ever had, look no further than 1939. Records dating back almost 100 years indicate that the Springs saw just over 6 inches of precipitation for the year. For context, June alone of 2023 recorded 9.62 inches of rain smashing several local records.

Be sure to check back in with the FOX21 Storm Team for further information on potential flash flooding this week.

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