A warmer than normal Gulf of Mexico implies low-level atmosphere moisture levels are abundant. When southerly flow from the Gulf interacts with mid-latitude storms heavy precipitation is likely centered on the East-central U.S. for late winter and into spring.

Where it rains, it pours is thematic of the Jan. 22-28 rainfall pattern across South America soybean, wheat and corn growing areas. Up to 4 in. of rain was observed in far northwestern Argentina and a small area near the Uruguay state line. However, forecasts are dry again for the Argentina drought region the next 10 days.