Southwest Climate Outlook October 2005 Water Year in Review

Date issued
10-27-2005

October Climate Summary
Drought
– Abnormally dry conditions to moderate drought continue in the western half of New Mexico, as well as in northeastern and southeastern Arizona.
• Pasture and range land conditions continue to degrade in Arizona.
Large Colorado River reservoirs and Elephant Butte Reservoir in New Mexico remain considerably below average.
Temperature –
The past 30 days were mainly warmer than average across the
Southwest region.
Precipitation –
Much of the Southwest received below-average precipitation during the past 30 days. North-central New Mexico and western Arizona were notable
exceptions.
Climate Forecasts –
Models indicate increased chances of above-average temperatures in the Southwest through April 2006. Forecasters predict slightly increased
chances of drier-than-average conditions across most of the region for the fall and
early winter.
El Niño –
ENSO-neutral conditions are expected to continue through spring 2006.
The Bottom Line –
Drought should persist along parts of the Arizona-New Mexico
border. Hydrological drought is still a concern for managers of some large surface
water supplies in the Southwest.

Published by the Climate Assessment for the Southwest (CLIMAS), with support from University of Arizona Cooperative Extension, the Arizona State Climate Office, and the New Mexico State Climate office.

Disclaimer. This packet contains official and non-official forecasts, as well as other information. While we make every effort to verify this information, please understand that we do not warrant the accuracy of any of these materials. The user assumes the entire risk related to the use of this data. CLIMAS, UA Cooperative Extension, and the State Climate Office at Arizona State University (ASU) disclaim any and all warranties, whether expressed or implied, including (without limitation) any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. In no event will CLIMAS, UA Cooperative Extension, and the State Climate Office at ASU or The University of Arizona be liable to you or to any third party for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, special or exemplary damages or lost profit resulting from any use or misuse of this data.