What's In Store: Week Ending May 17, 2008

Early week, the storm that plagued the Midwest on Mothers Day will produce another round of cool, blustery conditions and heavy rains from the Carolinas northward into the Maritimes. A warmer trend is expected further west across the Canadian Prairies, Plains and Rockies ahead of the next storm. This storm will organize in the Plains mid-week producing showers and thunderstorms (some severe) from Texas and points north. Temperatures will warm back to near normal readings in the East before the storm moves to the East Coast late in the week. This is the harbinger of a distinct pattern change across North America. There is increasing confidence in the development of a strong Great Basin high pressure system in the Rockies which will allow temperatures to warm considerably and divert any Pacific storms well north. Many locations in the western U.S. will experience highs in the mid to upper 80s and 90s (100s in the Desert) with 80s reaching well north into the western provinces. Unfortunately for those from the Plains and Prairies to the East Coast, this pattern will bring unseasonably cool temperatures and frequent storms.

Consumer Impact in the East/Mid-Western North America: The week ahead will be a challenging one for retailers due to the combination of cooler temperatures and frequent bouts of wet weather. Expect seasonal demand to lag last year.

Consumer Impact in the Western Portions of North America: Anticipate good news for retailers as a touch of summer will come to most locations and help drive sales of cold beverages, air conditioners, etc. Dry weather will be very welcome in the Pacific Northwest and western provinces.