We know the question on your mind, Lakelanders — when’s it going to get cooler? Thanks to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, we know what temperatures and precipitation trends to expect in our city for September, October, and November.
While exact weather conditions typically can’t be predicted more than a week in advance, here’s a seasonal outlook to help you prepare for what fall will bring.
Reminder: Fall starts on Sunday, Sept. 22.
Expect a warmer than usual autumn.
Map via NOAA
Temperature
Think warm. This fall, Lakeland has a 50-60% chance of temperatures being higher than normal, up from last year’s probability.
Precipitation
Expect slightly more precipitation. Lakeland has a 40-50% chance of seeing above-average rainfall amounts this fall.
Drought
The Lakeland area is not expected to have any drought conditions this season.
Fall in Lakeland wouldn’t be the same without a stop by Cow Creek Farms.
Photo by @cowcreekfarm
Still sweating into September
Typically in Lakeland, September’s temperatures fluctuate between an average low of 73° and an average high of 88°, but the heat index can still feel as hot as 105º. Keep your umbrellas close this month — hurricane season peaks around mid-September.
Optimistic about October
In October, the average temps are between a low of 67° and a high of 83°. You’ll most likely still feel nice and warm while you walk through the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market or stand in line at Born & Bread Bakehouse, but on the bright side, Lakeland in October is known for its gentle breeze.
No fear November
Average highs in November drop to 77° while the lows dip into the high 50s with an average of 59°. Daylight saving time will also end on Sunday, Nov. 3, so we’ll have less sunshine each day leading up to Thanksgiving.
