Friday almanac: Extensive cloud cover, periodic rain drops temperatures

NOTE: This article is now an almanac of Friday’s weather. We have published a new forecast story for Saturday.

It was a noticeably cooler day on Friday compared to recent days. The 71 degree high officially at O’Hare International Airport tied June 4 and 9 for the coolest highs of the month so far.

The extensive blanket of cloud cover and periodic light rain showers were behind the temperature downturn. 

Areas far northwest of Chicago, where some sunshine did emerge saw significantly milder temperatures.  

The paltry rain totals at both major airports did little to help the precipitation deficit which continues to grow. The latest Drought Monitor from USDA continues to show the majority of the Chicagoland area in “Moderate Drought” with the Kankakee River Valley one step below, classified as “Abnormally Dry.”