HMS Monthly Summary (Narrative)

Narrative Summary - October 1996

October 1996 was only slightly cooler than normal, averaging 52.4ºF, 0.5º
below normal (52.9ºF). The first 14 days of the month averaged 5.1ºF above
normal, while the last 17 days averaged 5.2øF below normal. A record high
maximum of 86ºF was set on October 10, while only one week later a record low
maximum of 45ºF occurred on October 17. The warmest October averaged 59.6ºF
(1988), while the coolest, in 1984, averaged 47.9ºF. The following daily
temperature records were established during the month:

		New	Old
Date	Category	Record	Record	Year
9	High Minimum	56	54	1953
10	High Maximum	86	82	1988
10	High Minimum	55	54	1995
17	Low Maximum	45	49	1950
17	Low Minimum	26	29	1971
21	Low Maximum	45	49	1945

Pecipitation for October 1996 totaled 0.88 in., 232% of normal (0.38 in.).
The wettest October, in 1957, received 2.72 in., while the driest, in 1987 and
earlier years, received only a trace. Total precipitation since January 1 is
5.83 in., 135% of normal (4.32 in.).

For additional information contact:

Ken Burk 373-3215

Dana Hoitink 372-6414

Note: The information in this summary pertains specifically to
the Hanford Meteorology Station (HMS), which is located
approximately 25 miles northwest of Richland, Washington. No
attempt should be made to infer meteorological conditions at other
locations from these data.