Dear Tom,
Is it possible for a drought to happen in the winter? Has it happened?
— Katie Stevens, 10, Tinley Park
Dear Katie,
Drought (extreme dryness because of a lack of precipitation) can occur at any time of the year — winter included. But its effects are most noticeable during the period from April through September, when actively growing plants need water.
A drought that began in January 2007 in the southeastern United States continues today.
The Chicago area suffered through harsh winter droughts in 1919-20, 1930-31 and 1962-63.
A winter drought usually coincides with a lack of stormy weather, which urban residents welcome. But they fail to realize that winter precipitation is vital because it recharges soil moisture in preparation for the next growing season.
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Write to: ASK TOM WHY, 2501 Bradley Pl., Chicago, IL 60618 or: asktomwhy@wgntv.com
Weather Report is prepared by the WGN-TV Weather Center, where Tom Skilling is chief meteorologist. His forecasts can be seen Monday through Friday on WGN News at noon, 5:55 p.m. and 9 p.m.
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