After a lengthy stretch of dry weather across the Western New York region, a change in the forecast will bring some relief to the moderate drought conditions.
It will feel like summer across the region Sunday, National Weather Service forecasters say, with temperatures expected to reach the upper 70's to low 80's with a touch of humidity.
A few showers and an isolated thunderstorm are possible across the region, before a pattern shift brings on and off showers and thunderstorms across the area through mid-week.
Chances for rainfall increase during the day Monday and through Tuesday, with potential rainfall amounts through this period on the order of one half inch to an inch, forecasters say.
Temperatures through midweek will be warmer, with nighttime temps a solid 5 to 10 degrees above normal.
AccuWeather forecasters say, the prolonged dryness has stressed many trees, causing leaves to change color prematurely and drop quickly. Those planning road trips to view fall foliage may need to move their trip forward or shift their travels farther south as the leaf change is ahead of average in many areas due to drought conditions.
The lack of rain is becoming serious in parts of the northeastern and central United States, with some small streams drying up and larger rivers reduced to a fraction of their usual flow.
The lack of rain is affecting hay production, which many farmers rely on to feed their livestock during the winter.
The deepening drought is affecting agriculture and fishing, and it may soon impact drinking water supplies as water tables drop and levels in wells and reservoirs decline in the region.