Summer in the Northern Hemisphere officially began on Saturday, June 20, 2020, at 5:44 p.m. EDT, with the arrival of the summer solstice. This marked the longest day of the year and the moment when the Sun reaches the Tropic of Cancer, its highest point. For those who live in the Southern Hemisphere, this is the shortest day of the year and the arrival of winter. The solstice happens at the same moment for everyone, everywhere on Earth.
For many, summer is the most anticipated season of the year. But these are uncertain times. We understand that the coronavirus pandemic will most likely put a crimp in plans and summer vacations may be staycations. But we know that many are looking forward to warmer temperatures and seeing nature in full bloom.
Will summer sizzle or fizzle? Here’s what we’re predicting for the U.S. and Canada.
2020 United States Summer Forecast
How Hot Will Summer Be?
Summer starts on a stormy note in most regions. July runs hot for much of the nation, with well-above-normal temperatures predicted.
Summer Weather: Wet or Dry?
Much of the country will see near-normal precipitation, but the far West will be drier-than-normal, and it will be wet across the southern Plains and the Gulf Coast through Florida.
Will it rain on your July 4th cookout? Check out our detailed weather forecast for your zone here.
2020 Hurricane Outlook
A hurricane might threaten Florida during the first week of June, just as “meteorological summer” begins, and a subtropical disturbance could affect parts of the Atlantic Seaboard during the third week of June. Then things should quiet down during July and August before ramping up again in mid-September with a tropical storm threat along the Gulf Coast.
A hurricane threat for the mid-Atlantic and Northeast is predicted at the same time. Typically, tropical cyclone activity over the Atlantic and Caribbean Sea increases exponentially during the second week of August and reaches its peak on September 10.
See the Hurricane Names for 2020
2020 Canadian Summer Forecast
According to the 2020 Canadian Farmers’ Almanac, summer heat will arrive in full force by July with much of the nation sweltering with above to much-above normal temperatures. Much of the country will see near-normal precipitation, but the Far West will be drier than normal.
As far as the tropics are concerned, the Maritimes will need to monitor an offshore subtropical disturbance during the third week of June. Then things should quiet down in July and August before ramping up again in mid-September with a hurricane threat for the Maritimes, and another potential hurricane could take a swipe at Cape Race to the Avalon Peninsula just a week later. Typically, tropical cyclone activity over the Atlantic and the Caribbean Sea increases exponentially during the second week of August and reaches its traditional peak on September 10.
For a detailed zone-by-zone forecast, visit our Long-Range Weather page.
Your Summer Survival Kit
Tips, Tricks & Hacks to Maximize Your Summer Fun!
Critter & Itch Control
Natural Tick Remedies That Work!
Make Your Own Natural Bug Repellent
Gardening
Mosquito Repelling Plants—Fact or Fiction?
Gardening by the Moon Calendar —pick the best days for planting!
Create A Magical Moon Garden to Enjoy This Summer!
Fishing Fun
8 Fun Ways To Hook Kids on Fishing
5 Tips for Fishing in the Rain
Fishing Calendar – Pick the best days to fish in 2020 and check out the interactive map!
Beat The Heat
Why Are They Called The Dog Days of Summer?
Pet Safety In Summer Heat
Why Summer is Kidney Stone Season
Help Your Chickens Beat The Heat With A Confetti Ice Ring
Keep Your Pet Cool With Doggie Ice Cream!
Creative Ideas For Back Yard Fun
Here are a few ideas to make the most of your time at home.
For Summer Staycation Fun, Prime Your Backyard!
When Will Fireflies Light Up Your Back Yard?
Cool Reads
The Year Without A Summer – 1816
What Did People Do Before Air Conditioning?
10 Fascinating Facts About Fireflies
What Is The Urban Heat Island Effect?
Be Safe From Summer Weather Hazards!
Summer Recipes We Love
Make Your Own Refreshing Granitas – A new take on Italian Ice!
Too Much Zucchini? Try These Recipes
Too Hot To Cook? Break Out The Slow Cooker!
Top 5 Foods for Picnics and Cookouts
Watergate Salad – A Retro Classic!
