ALL YOU CAN EAT SUMMER

With the official start of fall just over a week way, it's apparent that summer is not ready to let go. Today, many of us are expected to experience our 5th consecutive day in the 80s. Assuming that's the case, it may be some time before highs fall below that level. Here's the EURO meteogram showing temperatures reaching the 80 degree threshold through September 22nd. That would push the current streak to 13 consecutive days.

The GFS, (which seems to be running several degrees too warm and is a low confidence solution), runs the 80 degree streak to 20 consecutive days.

In this graphic, produced by the Iowa mesonet, you can see how these lengthy stretches of 80 degree warmth become difficult to attain after mid-September. If the fates allow as the GFS indicates, this year's potential streak could be one of the longest (if not the longest) to occur this late in September. The mark to beat is 15. Notice, there has never been more than one individual day in the 80s from November through February. On the flip side, 1983 went 66 consecutive days (July 7th-September 10th) with a high of least 80. That's Impressive!

When you look at the 7-day mean 500mb jet stream flow for week one and two, you can see a persistent trough over the west and upper ridging over the central U.S. That effectively cuts off access to cold air, and keeps the rain making storm track to the west and north.

Week 1 ending September 21st.

Week 2 ending September 28th.

As long as the heights remain low in Alaska, extended summer is likely to continue over the center of the nation. That is still the case going into October, with the GFS is showing a 500mb pattern like this September 29th.

Here are the average temperature departures for the next 7 days.

These are the average week 2 departures for the following week ending September 28th.

The week 3 outlook from the Climate Prediction Center continues to show a high chance of above normal temperatures and below normal precipitation into early October.

Suffice it to say, the evidence is strong for warm, dry conditions to continue into early October.

RAIN PROSPECTS

The last few days, we've talked about chances of widely scattered showers or perhaps a stray thunderstorm tied to some weak convergence and residual moisture from the remnants of what was once hurricane Florence this weekend. Prospects continue to dwindle, and chances are less than 25 percent of any one area getting in on a shower. Consider yourself lucky if you do. The most likely time for a rogue shower is late Saturday or Saturday evening.

Here's what the EURO suggests for rainfall through the weekend.

The GFS indicates this.

The hi-res 3k NAM is bone dry.

The bottom line is what you see is pretty much what you're going to get for the foreseeable future. The dog days of August have come late this year. Have an outstanding weekend and roll weather...TS

PEOPLE LOVE IT. OUR AIRBNB IS A MOST LOVED GUEST FAVORITE!

ANOTHER 5-STAR REVIEW....thanks Myriam

AIRBNB has rated my renovated church in Galena A GUEST FAVORITE, A MOST LOVED home according to visitors. Check out some of our reviews and get in on the flexible deals we have available below.

Christa-Monument, Colorado

The Little White Church is amazing!!!! Pictures do not do it justice. I would absolutely recommend it to my friends and family. It is just so unique. Carolyn is an amazing host and super responsive. I would give our experience 6 out of 5 stars if I could.

Phillip-Queensland, Australia

Amazing and thoughtful renovation. Stayed in a piece of history. Great location and modern amenities. Would stay again!

Jill

The Little White Church is beautiful. The decorations are perfect, and it was redone with impeccable taste. Carolyn was a great host.

Brent

Such a gem. Relaxing in the countryside in a historic church that was beautifully decorated and recently renovated was exactly what we experienced. Everyone loved our stay, and we will be back!!!

Leigh

Beautiful and unique. We were all captivated by the adorable chapel turned AIRBNB

Jenny-Frisco, Texas

It was a magical place for our family to celebrate Christmas!

Kelly

What a gem! The Little White Church exceeded our expectations. It was the perfect spot to meet up with another couple to relax and explore nearby Galena. We enjoyed the beautiful great room with its fireplace and amazing views of the rolling countryside. (The photos simply can't do it justice). The charming church/home was quiet, well appointed and clean. And Carolyn was proactive with instructions and a terrific communicator. We will definitely be back!

John

Absolutely incredible! Loved the tranquility and the beautiful views. The decor was so inviting. AND the bell tower works!! Would 100% stay here again!

Tori-Cedar Falls

This place is so beautiful! Carolyn and Terry were so thoughtful and kind to let us have our wedding at the church. They even provided extra supplies in case we needed them. The private garden worked perfectly for our ceremony, and the backyard easily fit our reception needs. Not to mention, the balconies make perfect photo spots! My husband and I recommend the Little White Church and will be telling all our friends about it.

Mahesh-Buffalo Grove

Carolyn was a great host, very flexible! The place is super clean, spacious with a private backyard overlooking the fields and bluffs! We spent a lot of time on the deck. Great kitchen, clean bedrooms and baths. Highly recommend the place.

William

Great place. Great host. Will definitely book again and tell our friends.

Miriam

Carolyn and Terry's place is BEAUTIFUL! The Little White Church is a wonderful place, way more beautiful than the pictures. Everything is brand new and extremely clean. Staying at the church was a unique experience and I would love to come back soon. I strongly recommend the place if you are looking for a 5-star location!

Vanessa-Chicago

Carolyn was great! Absolutely beautiful place! I would not hesitate to go back. We spent Thanksgiving and the next night. Very well stocked and above and beyond with extras included. Thank you!

MAKE US AN OFFER...

What about pricing? Right now, we are able to offer you our best pricing ever. We have 3 nights for the price of 2 which, depending on the days, can save as much as $300-$400 dollars. If you book directly through us, you can also eliminate booking fees and taxes that the big chains charge. Cleaning fees are also drastically reduced. It all adds up to exceptional deals at a destination worth visiting. Let us assist in finding a time and price that works for you. Here's a link to some pictures. https://www.tswails.com/galena-airbnb

Carolyn and I will do all we can to make sure your stay is a memorable one. Please call or text Carolyn for more details and options and get a prime date while they are still available. Again, that's Carolyn at 563-676-3320. Or carolynswettstone@yahoo.com

Now that it's vacation season, there is no better place to visit than Galena and no better place to stay than my newly renovated AIRBNB, the Little White Church. We are located in the bluffs, just 5 miles from the 2nd largest tourism destination in Illinois. In fact, "Tourist Destination", rated Galena as the 2023 top place to visit in the entire Midwest.

Now is the best time to enjoy all there is to offer, and my 5-star AIRBNB is the perfect location to stay. Set in the rolling hills just outside of town, our completely renovated church is designed for you to unwind and relax.

Again, we are an AIRBNB Super host and can accommodate up to 8 guests. We've got cable, hi-speed WIFI, Sirius XM and a sparkling full kitchen. We are a home away from home and take great pride in cleanliness and comfort. All of our ratings have attained perfect 5-star status!

Hope to see you soon,

Terry and Carolyn

7 GREAT REASONS TO VISIT GALENA

1. It’s Steeped In History

2. It’s Home To One Of The Best Main Streets In America

3. The Restaurants Are Amazing

4. There’s A Lot To Do Outdoors

5. You Don’t Have To Travel To The Mountains To Go Skiing

6. It’s A Great Place To Spend The Fourth Of July

7. Did I Mention The Shopping?