Labor Day Weekend Forecast

For many in North America, Summer-like temperatures have hung on over the past few weeks, but cooler conditions are on the horizon, according to Planalytics. The run-up to Labor Day weekend will feature temperatures cooler than both last year and normal for the majority of North America.

The West Coast and Southeast will experience slightly warmer temperatures to last year. Precipitation is expected to impact the Northern Plains eastward to the Atlantic Coast by mid-to-late week.

Canada also celebrates Labour Day on September 1. The week leading up to Labour Day will trend cooler than last year in western markets, ideal for early Fall demand. Warmth will be focused in the East, providing an opportunity to clear Summer merchandise.

The cooler temperatures will continue into the holiday weekend (Friday August 29 through Monday September 1). This cooler trend should help boost demand for early Fall apparel, and support outdoor activities, says the weather forecasting firm. The West Coast will remain warmer, helping drive demand for bottled water, seasonal cooling items, and Summer apparel clearance. There is an increased potential for rainfall in the Northern Plains, Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, and Mid-Atlantic throughout the holiday weekend.

For reference, Labor Day in 2013 trended warmer than normal with above normal rainfall.

It was the 4th warmest Labor Day in 50 years with the warmest temperatures focused on the coasts. The Northern and Central Plains experienced slightly cooler temperatures compared to the prior year.

Rainfall was focused in the Northeast, Southeast, and Mountain regions.  

Labour Day in Canada was warmer than normal, and the wettest since 1980.