Western New York Faces Worsening Drought Amid Early October Heat Return

Early October weather across parts of the U.S. shows a transition from unseasonable warmth back to more typical fall conditions, though warm temperatures are expected to return soon. In Buffalo, New York, highs have dropped closer to average but will rebound to the low 80s over the weekend with abundant sunshine and low humidity, despite ongoing drought conditions that have led to a significant moisture deficit and moderate drought designation for the region. Central New York experienced a cooler start to October with frost and freeze warnings, yet a warming trend with potential 80-degree days is expected by the weekend. Meanwhile, Oklahoma City continues to face a "creeping drought" with 22 consecutive days of above-normal temperatures and sparse rainfall. The broader Mid-Atlantic region, including Washington D.C. and Virginia, is anticipated to see a warmer and drier-than-average October, with drought conditions likely to expand. Across these regions, dry conditions and drought are common themes, impacting fall foliage and increasing the risk of leaf drop and muted color vibrancy.