Image from NOAA-Nat. Climate Data Center.

While the USA is on track for its hottest year ever, the world had the 5th warmest October since records began in the 1880′s. Part of North America and Central Asia were chilly, but just about everywhere else was unusually warm. If the El Nino had developed as though a few months ago, it would likely have been even warmer.

The first 8 months of 2012 now rank as the 8th warmest on record globally.

Notice the incredible warmth over North America.

Much of the Plains remain in EXCEPTIONAL drought as well:

Oh, and while I have not been crazy enough to eat one for many years..

RIP Twinkie

At least they saved on the embalming...(seen on Facebook)