Narrative Summary - September 1997

September 1997 was slightly warmer than normal, averaging 66.8ºF, 1.1º above
normal (65.7ºF). The warmest September averaged 72.4ºF (1990); while the coolest
averaged 58.8ºF (1985). The maximum temperature of 71ºF on September 3 was a
record low maximum for that date. The previous record was 72ºF in 1970.

Precipitation for September 1997 totaled 0.32 inch, 103% of normal (0.31 inch). The
wettest September, in 1947, received 1.34 inches; while the driest, in 1991, received
no precipitation. Total precipitation since January 1, 1997 is 4.15 inches, 105% of
normal (3.94 inches).

September 1997's average wind speed was 8.1 miles per hour (mph), compared to a
September normal of 7.4 mph. The peak wind gust for the month was 48 mph
recorded on September 26. The windiest September on record averaged 9.2 mph
(1961); while the September with the lightest winds (1957) averaged 5.4 mph. The
highest peak gust ever recorded during the month of September was 65 mph in 1953.

The total number of days during 1997 with maximum temperatures >= 90ºF was 53,
compared to a normal of 52 such days. The greatest number of days was 79 in 1967,
while the least was 29 in 1980. The total number of days with maximum temperatures
>= 100ºF was 10, compared to a normal of 13. The greatest number of days >= 100ºF
was 28 in 1958, while the least was 1 in 1954.

The monthly climatological data summaries, as well as other information, are now
available on the Internet. Address: http://etd.pnl.gov:2080/HMS/ .

For additional information contact:
Ken Burk373-3215
Dana Hoitink372-6414

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.