THE FORTUNES OF WEATHER

Somebody's good weather is generally somebody else's bad. Dynamically, that's just the way it works. More often than not, seasonal patterns set in, and while one area is wet and cool, another not far away is warm and dry. In between is where the storm track resides, the so-called "battleground states" of weather.

The last two months, my region has been the beneficiary of a mild dry pattern with little in the way of battleground conflict. That re-established drought conditions here in the Midwest, as you can see by the latest drought index. When it was constructed Tuesday, my area was classified in moderate to severe drought. Around the corn belt, 96.54 percent of the region was considered to be at least abnormally dry, a massive increase from 3 months ago when that percentage was just 16.15 percent.

THEN THE SKIES OPENED UP...

Mercifully, a pattern change has taken place and our fortunes have flipped in what appears to be an active wet pattern for much of the next 2 weeks, probably longer. Look at the rain that's already fallen the past 7 days.

Much of eastern Iowa has experienced 200-300 percent more rainfall than is average during that period.

It appears that Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin and Missouri will continue to be battleground states going forward with the mean storm track centered overhead. Look what the GFS and EURO are indicating for precipitation the next 2 weeks ending November 16th.

The GFS

The EURO

Don't hold the models to specific numbers as they will bounce around, however the trend for significant precipitation is indisputable and highly favored. CPC shows much of the nation with higher than average chances of above normal precipitation in its 8-14 day outlook, ending November 14th.

With the rain that's already fallen and what's likely to come, there's a decent chance that many parts of the Midwest will be out of drought classification by the end of November. In fact, the seasonal drought outlook issued October 31st shows improved conditions for some with the removal of drought conditions altogether for others. This is outstanding news for agricultural interests around the central Midwest/

The next system in the cue comes out in pieces, with the first round of rain arriving no later than Sunday morning. After a break Sunday night, the next wave arrives late Monday and Monday night. That's followed by the final volley, Tuesday. Most guidance indicates that all told, another widespread 1–2 inches of rain is likely, with a few spots potentially picking up 3-inch amounts.

Temperatures, while cooler than they have been recently, will still remain well above normal, punching into the 60s again Sunday through next Tuesday. Toward the end of the period, around November 15th, the EURO ensembles indicate a strong cold front that sends temperatures into the low 40s.

There are indications that this may open the door for colder, more seasonal air masses, especially the last week of November. The cold is there, it's just a matter of getting the jet in a position to deliver it. It's too far off to get specific about that potential. For what it's worth, the EURO ensemble shows this for snow sometime between November 15th and December 16th. This low confidence.

Well, that's all I have for now. Get that yard work done or hang those Christmas lights today as Sunday looks to be a wet one. 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