The possibility of showers and heavy downpours this weekend, while a complication for outdoor plans, will help to reverse this season's very hot and very dry pattern.  As measured at Reagan National, the rainfall deficit for the year is now over 5 inches with these past three summer months all being disappointments in reducing that number.  And while the number of 90 degree plus days continues to climb - the 46th such day was recorded yesterday - a different, but equally revealing statistic on the summer's heat is the fact that only 7 days this entire summer have been below the seasonal average.  In June, there were just four - on the 13th, 14th, 15th, and 20th; in July, just three - on the 14th, 15th, and 16th; and this month, there have been none.  The prospect of rain and the attendant cooler temperatures could yet add some below average days to our August tally, starting with today.  With a fair amount of cloudiness, highs today should be in the low to mid 80s; that milder trend should continue through much of next week.

Look for some scattered showers today, the possiblily of heavier showers tonight and tomorow, and perhaps some more rain on Monday.  But the return of high pressure on Tuesday will bring lower humidity, sunnier skies, and more pleasant days for the bulk of the week.  With the dip in temperatures, the shortening of the days, and a slight decrease in the intensity of the sun's rays, signs that September is not that far away are all around us!  Enjoy your weekend.