If you’re wondering why much of Texas hasn’t yet experienced any real winter weather, we have the answer – and it might shock you. Take a look at the explanation behind these unseasonably warm temperatures, as well as what to expect moving forward through the remainder of winter. Hint: you may need to invest in a thicker coat.
Back in August, the Old Farmers’ Almanac released its annual winter weather prediction. A hot and dry season was forecast for the Lone Star State due to decreased solar activity, weakened ocean currents, and below-normal levels of precipitation.
Flickr/omayas Recent atmospheric changes, however, have drastically altered how the next few months will unfold.
Frigid air will move into the East and Midwest for the entirety of February and possibly even early March. Here in Texas, temperatures are expected to dip well below average for this time of year.
Flickr/imagesbywestfall We have the polar vortex, a rotating cone of low pressure, to thank for this phenomenon.
If you can recall, we experienced some unusual warmth in early January. The vortex weakened dramatically after a rapid spike in stratospheric temperature, causing warmth all across the globe.
Flickr/agrilifetoday This warming effect also split the vortex into three separate circulation areas, allowing for more air to flow from the poles.
Unfortunately, the increased surface area means more chilly air can travel southward into North America. It typically takes several weeks for this to occur, and since the initial warming happened in early January, we’re just now starting to feel the impact.
Flickr/wasifmalik Temperatures will continue to drop and possibly even be accompanied by snowfall throughout the remainder of winter.
February is expected to be downright miserable, a slight warming trend following in early-to-mid March.
Flickr/pierceplace532 Luckily, April won’t be a repeat of last year’s record-breaking cold. By the time spring arrives, near-average temperatures are expected.
We hope you have a warm winter coat, Texans. These next few weeks are going to be pretty nasty.
Flickr/paulorear What do you think about this updated forecast? Let us know your thoughts!
To read more about the phenomena, check out this article.
Flickr/omayas
Recent atmospheric changes, however, have drastically altered how the next few months will unfold.
Flickr/imagesbywestfall
We have the polar vortex, a rotating cone of low pressure, to thank for this phenomenon.
Flickr/agrilifetoday
This warming effect also split the vortex into three separate circulation areas, allowing for more air to flow from the poles.
Flickr/wasifmalik
Temperatures will continue to drop and possibly even be accompanied by snowfall throughout the remainder of winter.
Flickr/pierceplace532
Luckily, April won’t be a repeat of last year’s record-breaking cold. By the time spring arrives, near-average temperatures are expected.
Flickr/paulorear
What do you think about this updated forecast? Let us know your thoughts!
On the bright side, you’ll be able to enjoy these winter activities for a little longer this year! Might as well enjoy ourselves despite the bitter cold.
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