National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, Deputy Director of the Climate Prediction Center, Mike Halpert, says conditions are similar to last year at this time but that doesn't mean we're in for another winter with above normal temperatures.

 

 

Drought is predicted in the northern plains is predicted for this winter, despite record rains from last year.

 

 

Wetter than average conditions are expected in the northern plains while the southern US is expected to be dry. Halpert says right now, Illinois finds itself in an 'equal chance' category for temperatures. He explains there is not enough information available to make a prediction yet.