Holiday Forecast: Scattered Showers in the East, Dry West  

As Americans prepare for the 4th of July and Canadians for Canada Day on July 1, planalytics reports tht a difficult temperature comparison to last year will challenge seasonal demand.

In the U.S. the July 4th holiday and subsequent weekend will feature temperatures in the West that are both warmer than normal and last year. The East can expect temperatures which will generally trend cooler than normal, and much cooler than last year.

Precipitation will target the eastern third of the U.S. in the form of scattered showers and thunderstorms, says Planalytics. This continues the recent trend of wetness in this region which will also include the upcoming weekend leading up to the holiday. The Southeast region can expect the heaviest rain over the holiday period, potentially putting a damper on outdoor activities for some markets. The remainder of the U.S. should expect limited rainfall, with the West having the best chance for a precipitation-free holiday period. A warm and dry West provides the strongest opportunity for seasonal demand compared to last year, says the weather forecasting firm.

Meanwhile, on Canada Day, the warmest temperatures compared to normal will be focused in Western Canada as well as the Maritimes. Cooler (near normal) temperatures should be concentrated in the major cities in Ontario and Quebec. Rainfall will be centered in the East as well, although any precipitation in the West, particularly over Calgary, could worsen the ongoing flooding conditions.