Rain in June falls short of forecast

   Unless unexpected torrential downpours are on the way, it isn't likely July - the hottest month of the year - will be able to compensate for a thus far dismal year for precipitation in the Pikes Peak region.

   Forecasts that June would produce a normal amount of rain and compensate for an almost complete lack of rain in the first half of the year fell short by 1.82 inches. Half the month's 0.52 inches fell in a 24-hour period straddling June 19 and 20, according to the National Weather Service.

   "That is a nice soaking rain for one day, but over the course of the month if that's all you end up with, that is unfortunate," said Randy Gray, meteorological technician with the National Weather Service in Pueblo.

   Since January, the region has soaked up 2.86 inches, far below the normal 8.04 inches for midway through the year.

   The average daily high for June was 81.4 degrees, slightly above the average 79.2 degrees. The average daily low temperature was 50.4 degrees, near the normal 49.5 degrees.

   Looking ahead, meteorologists predict a fairly normal July, Gray said. Temperatures are not expected to deviate too far from the normal 84.4-degree average daily high and 54.8-degree average daily low.

   "There is a little bit of a hope for the month of July preciptiation-wise," Gray said.

   While the region is expected to collect at least the normal 2.85 inches of rain this month, a system stretching from New Mexico over the central Colorado mountains might sprinkle some additional moisture on the mountains hugging the Front Range.

   The record high for July was recorded at 100 degrees July 13, 1954, and again July 24, 2003. The record low is 37 degrees, set on July 4, 1903.